Playing the most consecutive Test matches for the country is not everyone’s cup of tea. Test cricket is the most challenging format of the sport. Unlike any format of any sport, a cricket match lasts for five days in the Test format, with both teams getting a chance to bat for unlimited overs twice.
There was a time when there was no limit on the time for the match as well, but the era of timeless Tests no longer exists. The modern era features Test matches of four days or five days. It takes a toll on the body of the all players because they have to bring their best to the table on all days.
In this listicle now, we will look at the top six players who played the most consecutive Test matches without taking a break in cricket history.
6. Nathan Lyon
Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon became the sixth player to play 100 or more consecutive Tests in cricket history. The ongoing second Test of Ashes 2023 is the 100th consecutive appearance for Australia from Lyon.
5. Brendon McCullum
England’s current Test coach Brendon McCullum was once a player of the New Zealand cricket team. He was one of the fittest players of his time and played 101 back-to-back matches.
4. Sunil Gavaskar
Regarded by many as one of the best batters of all time, Sunil Gavaskar owns the record for playing the most consecutive Test matches for India. He played 106 back-to-back Tests.
3. Mark Waugh
Former Australian player Mark Waugh is the third name on this list. He holds the third spot, having played in 107 back-to-back Tests for the Australian cricket team.
2. Allan Border
The record for the most consecutive Test appearances by an Aussie belongs to Allan Border. The legendary cricketer played in 153 back-to-back matches for his nation.
1. Most consecutive Test matches played – 159 by Alastair Cook
Most Consecutive Tests played
— CricBeat (@Cric_beat) June 28, 2023
159 – Alastair Cook
153 – Allan Border
107 – Mark Waugh
106 – Sunil Gavaskar
101 – Brendon McCullum
100 – Nathan Lyon*
98 – AB Devilliers
96 – Adam Gilchrist#Ashes2023
Sir Alastair Cook owns the number one place on this all-time list. The former England captain donned the whites for his country in a world record 159 consecutive Tests.
