New Zealand has consistently produced remarkable batting talents over the years, with Martin Crowe being a trailblazer in this regard. Following in his footsteps were Stephen Fleming, Brendon McCullum, and Ross Taylor, while Kane Williamson elevated the legacy even further. Nevertheless, some players have remained relatively unnoticed, one of whom is Nathan Astle, who amassed 4,702 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and 7,090 runs in Test matches.

Astle, known for his aggressive batting style, retired from international cricket in 2007, yet he still holds the remarkable record for the fastest double century in Test cricket, achieved in just 153 balls. This innings is considered one of the most iconic in Test history, despite occurring in a losing effort. It was precisely 23 years ago that Astle unleashed his explosive batting in the second innings against England during a Test match in Christchurch in 2002. Chasing a daunting target of 550 runs, the right-handed batsman delivered a stunning performance, scoring 222 runs, which included 28 fours and 11 sixes, off just 168 balls.

What made this innings particularly extraordinary was the remarkable acceleration from 100 to 200 runs. Astle reached his century in 114 balls and then shifted into high gear, completing his double century in just 153 balls. He achieved this remarkable feat by scoring the additional 100 runs in a mere 39 balls, offering a preview of the explosive nature of T20 cricket three years before its official introduction.

Astle's knock went in vain

Astle's innings ultimately proved fruitless. New Zealand found themselves at nine wickets down, having scored 333 runs, when Astle launched an aggressive assault on the English bowling lineup, which included Andy Caddick, Matthew Hoggard, Andrew Flintoff, and Ashley Giles. His relentless hitting suggested that New Zealand might achieve an improbable victory; however, Hoggard eventually dismissed him for 222 runs. Astle formed a remarkable partnership of 118 runs off just 69 balls for the 10th wicket with Chris Crains, but New Zealand ultimately fell short by 98 runs.

With 11 sixes during his innings, Astle remains among the select few players who have hit more than ten sixes in a single Test innings.

Astle expressed his astonishment that he still holds the record for the fastest double century in Test cricket. He remarked on the surprising longevity of this record in the current era of fast-paced Test matches. “Given the aggressive nature of modern play, it is unexpected that it has not been surpassed. The game has evolved significantly, and its pace has changed. Therefore, I take great pride in the fact that this record has endured for so long,” Astle shared during an interview on the Weekend Sport podcast on Newstalk ZB a few years ago.

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