Key Takeaways:
Gundappa Viswanath, known for his elegant batting, was a maestro in Test cricket.
His top five performances include landmark innings against England, Australia, West Indies, and Pakistan.
With 6,080 Test runs, including 14 centuries, Viswanath remains one of India's greatest batsmen.
Gundappa Viswanath, one of India’s most stylish Test cricketers, mesmerized fans with his sublime timing and shot placement. His legacy is defined by match-winning innings, particularly against cricketing giants like England, Australia, and the West Indies. He was the hero of Karnataka cricket and looking at him so many young players came up in Karnataka.
Question: What are Gundappa Viswanath's best batting performances in cricket?
Answer: Gundappa Viswanath's best batting performances include his highest score of 222 against England in 1982, 161* vs Australia in 1979, and remarkable innings against Pakistan and the West Indies, showcasing his legendary skill and consistency.
Top 5 Best Gundappa Viswanath Batting Performances
1. 222 vs England (1982):
Viswanath’s career-best innings came against England in Chennai, where he scored a sublime 222. Facing 374 balls, he struck 31 boundaries, amassing 124 runs in fours alone, dominating a quality English attack led by Bob Willis.
2. 161* vs Australia (1979):
In 1979, Viswanath played a masterful unbeaten 161 against a strong Australian side. Anchoring the innings, he showcased exceptional stroke play, even hitting a rare six, leaving the Australians clueless. In his 297-ball innings, he batted for 405 minutes.
3. 179 vs West Indies (1979):
Against the formidable West Indies, Viswanath crafted a commanding 179. Facing one of the fiercest bowling attacks of the era, his innings stood out with flawless technique and unmatched poise. He lingered at the pitch for 420 minutes and hit 14 fours as well.
4. 145 vs Pakistan (1978):
Scoring 145 in Pakistan’s backyard was a testament to Viswanath’s class. As the sole centurion in India’s innings, he led the team’s response to Pakistan's first-innings total, cementing his legacy in Indo-Pak cricket. He hit 16 fours during this innings.
5. 139 vs West Indies (1974):
In a closely contested match, Viswanath’s 139 in the second innings helped India secure an 85-run victory. His counterattacking knock under pressure remains one of his most celebrated innings. He played 263 balls and batted for 376 minutes. He hit 23 fours during this innings.
Gundappa Viswanath Stats in International Cricket:
Format | Test Cricket | ODI |
Matches | 91 | 25 |
Innings | 155 | 23 |
Runs | 6,080 | 439 |
Highest Score | 222 | 75 |
Average | 41.93 | 19.95 |
100s | 14 | 0 |
50s | 35 | 2 |
Gundappa Viswanath’s artistry with the bat, particularly in Test cricket, remains a benchmark of excellence in Indian cricket history.
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