In a stunning turn of events during the third Test at Kingston’s Sabina Park (July 14–15, 2025), the West Indies were skittled out for just 27 runs in their fourth innings against Australia. It was the second-lowest innings total in Test cricket history—only New Zealand’s 26 against England in 1955 was worse.
Lowest Test Innings Totals of All Time
| Rank | Team | Score | Opposition | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 26 | England | Auckland | March 25, 1955 |
| 2 | West Indies | 27 | Australia | Kingston | July 14, 2025 |
| 3 | South Africa | 30 | England | Gqeberha | Feb 13, 1896 |
| 4 | South Africa | 30 | England | Birmingham | June 14, 1924 |
| 5 | South Africa | 35 | England | Cape Town | April 1, 1899 |
The Bowling Blitz
Mitchell Starc’s Masterclass
- In his 100th Test, Starc claimed 6 wickets for just 9 runs.
- He achieved the fastest-ever five-wicket haul, snaring five batsmen in just 15 balls.
- Recorded his 402nd Test wicket in the process.
Scott Boland’s Hat-Trick Heroics
- Boland contributed significantly with a hat-trick, dismissing three batsmen in three consecutive balls.
- His efforts reduced the Windies to 26–9 before the final wicket fell.
Fielding Lapses
- A misfield by Sam Konstas allowed the only extra run, preventing West Indies from falling below 27.
- Seven batsmen were dismissed without scoring; only Justin Greaves reached double figures with 11.
Series Impact & Scorecard
- Australia sealed a commanding 176-run victory, completing a 3–0 sweep in the Test series.
- West Indies, chasing just 204 on final day, were undone spectacularly by disciplined bowling and tight fielding.
Why This Matters
- Second-Worst Total Ever
- Now occupy an embarrassing second position behind the 1955 record.
- All-Time Low Fourth-Innings Total
- No team has been dismissed for fewer in all four innings of a match.
- Bowling Records Broken
- Starc’s rapid five-for and Boland’s hat-trick are standout achievements.
Reactions from the Field
- Starc: Praised conditions and his team’s consistency, calling it a thrilling personal and team achievement.
- Roston Chase (WI Captain): Described the collapse as “heartbreaking” and “embarrassing” given the opportunity to challenge Australia.
Australia’s pace duo dismantled the Windies’ batting lineup with surgical precision under the pink ball, leaving West Indies to face some tough questions about their batting depth and composure. This collapse isn’t just a record—it’s a wake-up call for Caribbean cricket.
