Top 10 highest scores on Test debut

#9 Hamish Rutherford (New Zealand) 171

His debut was not a replica of his father’s, who was troubled much by the then great Malcolm Marshall, ending up with a walk back to the pavilion for a couple. After toppling the English for a paltry 167, New Zealand were all over England with their batting as well.

Rutherford’s innings came out of nowhere and is perhaps one of the best debut innings, in terms of the technique and stylish shot selection. It was not that the English bowlers were bad, but Rutherford made sure that he saw off their scars, whenever they popped up. His innings showed sheer confidence alloyed with back foot punches through the off side.

A wash-out on the first day meant that the outfield would be a bit slow, but it wasn’t for Rutherford as he raced to 171 with 22 boundaries and 3 sixes in just 217 balls. The match ended in a draw as England fought back well with two centuries from Cook and Compton.