Top 5 Highest Scores by Indian Nightwatchmen in Test Cricket ft. Akash Deep
Here is the list of top 5 highest scores by Indian nightwatchmen in Test cricket history.
In cricket, a nightwatchman is a lower-order batter who comes in late in the day to protect the main players.
But sometimes, these nightwatchmen surprise everyone with their strong batting. Over the years, Indian nightwatchmen have also done well in Tests.
Here’s a look at the top 5 scores by Indian nightwatchmen in Test cricket.
1. Syed Kirmani – 101 vs Australia, 1979 (Mumbai)*
Syed Kirmani is the only Indian nightwatchman to score a century in Test cricket. He made an unbeaten 101 against Australia in 1979. His calm batting helped India post a strong total and win the match.
2. Amit Mishra – 84 vs England, 2011 (The Oval)
Leg-spinner Amit Mishra surprised many by scoring 84 runs as a nightwatchman in India’s follow-on innings during the 2011 Oval Test. His vital knock included a memorable 144-run partnership with Sachin Tendulkar.
3. Akash Deep – 66 vs England, 2025 (The Oval)
In the current Test series in England, Akash Deep scored 66 while coming in as a nightwatchman. He played a calm and confident innings and gave India a strong position in the match.
4. Amit Mishra – 50 vs Bangladesh, 2010 (Chattogram)
Mishra again makes the list. This time, it was against Bangladesh. He scored a steady 50 after coming in as a nightwatchman and helped India avoid a collapse.
5. Irfan Pathan – 46 vs Australia, 2008 (Perth)
Though just short of a fifty, Irfan Pathan deserves mention for his 46 runs as a nightwatchman at Perth in 2008. His determined knocks often helped India regain composure on a testing surface.
