Longest Innings in Cricket – What Makes a Batting Marathon?

If you love cricket, you’ve probably heard stories about innings that seemed to go on forever. A "longest innings" is more than just a big score; it’s a test of concentration, stamina, and strategy. Below we break down the most famous long knocks, why they matter, and how you can spot the signs of a marathon innings in a live match.

Test Cricket’s Epic Battles

The longest innings in Test history belong to Pakistan’s Hanif Mohammad. In 1958 he batted for 16 hours and 1 minute, scoring 337 not out against the West Indies. He faced 822 balls, survived five rain‑affected days, and showed that patience can beat any bowling attack. His record still stands as the longest time at the crease.

Another classic is Brian Lara’s 400 not out against England in 2004. Lara made 582 balls count, hitting 48 fours and 4 sixes. The innings lasted more than 13 hours and still holds the record for the highest individual Test score. Lara’s knock proves that confidence and timing can turn a long session into a historic moment.

In recent years, New Zealand’s Ross Taylor and England’s Alastair Cook have both posted double centuries that lasted over ten hours. Those innings show that modern players can combine fitness with skill to chase long scores without breaking a sweat.

One‑Day and T20 Marathons

While Test matches give you the most time, limited‑overs cricket also sees long innings. The highest individual score in ODIs is Rohit Sharma’s 264 against Sri Lanka in 2014. He faced 173 balls and kept the run rate high, turning a long innings into a fast‑scoring explosion.

In T20 cricket, the longest innings are measured by strike rate rather than time. Aaron Finch’s 172 against India in 2013 set the benchmark for a quick, high‑scoring knock. Though it lasted only 70 balls, the innings felt like a marathon because of the pressure to keep the score moving.

What all these innings have in common is a clear plan: the batsman knows when to defend, when to attack, and how to manage fatigue. Watching a player count their runs, watch the bowlers, and stay calm is the secret to lasting long at the crease.

For fans, spotting a potential marathon is simple. Look for a batsman who is comfortable with the pitch, has a solid defensive technique, and is rotating the strike well. If the bowler’s line and length are steady, the batsman can build the innings step by step.

In short, the longest innings are not just about big numbers. They’re about patience, fitness, and a smart approach to each ball. Whether you’re watching a five‑day Test or a 50‑over game, the lessons from these record‑breaking knocks can help you enjoy the sport even more.