Key Takeaways
Nathan Astle, one of New Zealand's finest cricketers, amassed over 11,800 international runs and 26 hundreds across formats.
His 222 vs England in 2002 is regarded as one of the greatest Test innings.
Astle was known for match-winning knocks under pressure and could dominate world-class bowling attacks.
One of the best cricketers to ever play for New Zealand was Nathan Astle. He played for New Zealand at a time when there were not a lot of great batting heroes for New Zealand. Nathan Astle was a proper player who had the perfect technique.
He played in 81 Test Matches for New Zealand as well as 223 ODIs. In the 81 Test Matches that he played he scored 4702 runs at an average of 37.02 and he made 11 Test hundreds and a double hundred as well. In the 223 ODIs that he played for New Zealand he made 7090 runs and 15 hundreds for New Zealand. So he has more than 11800 international runs and 26 international hundreds.
What are Nathan Astle’s best innings?
Nathan Astle is one of New Zealand's finest cricketers, with over 11,800 international runs and 26 centuries. His greatest innings include the iconic 222 against England in 2002 and several match-winning knocks in Tests and ODIs.
Top 5 best innings of Nathan Astle
1) 222 vs England (2002)
Astle’s breathtaking 222 off 168 balls in Christchurch is one of the greatest Test innings ever. Despite New Zealand's loss, his blistering strike rate of 132, with 28 fours and 11 sixes, showcased his exceptional skill under pressure.
2) 156 vs Australia (2001)
Astle’s unbeaten 156 on the challenging Perth wicket secured a draw for New Zealand against a formidable Australian attack featuring McGrath, Lee, and Warne. His 275-ball innings displayed grit and mastery.
3) 114 vs India (1995)
In his maiden ODI hundred, Astle’s 114 off 128 balls against India powered New Zealand to a convincing 99-run victory, marking the start of his stellar ODI career.
4) 145* vs USA (2004)
Astle’s highest ODI score came against the USA, where his 145* off 151 balls included 13 fours and 6 sixes. His dominant innings secured a 210-run win for New Zealand.
5) 122* vs England (2002)
Chasing 219, Astle’s unbeaten 122 off 150 balls sealed a comfortable win. With 12 fours and 5 sixes, he exemplified his ability to finish matches for New Zealand.
Nathan Astle Stats:
Format | Test Cricket | ODIs |
Matches | 81 | 223 |
Innings | 137 | 217 |
Runs | 4,702 | 7,090 |
Highest Score | 222 | 145* |
Average | 37.0 | 34.9 |
Strike Rate | 49.6 | 72.6 |
100s | 11 | 16 |
50s | 24 | 41 |
