Highest successful Test chases at Old Trafford

Rarely have teams managed to pull off exciting fourth-innings chases at Old Trafford, which has historically favored bowlers. However, some grit, temperament, and measured aggression under pressure have meant that some unlikely chases have been pulled off at the venue.  

Here are the three Highest successful Test chases at Old Trafford:

3. 231 by England vs. West Indies, 2004

This was the third Test of the four-match series. West Indies won the toss and batted first, scoring 395, with half-centuries from Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Dwayne Bravo, and Carlton Baugh. Matthew Hoggard took four wickets, and Andrew Flintoff claimed three. England replied with 330, with Graham Thorpe scoring 114 and Andrew Strauss contributing 90.

In the second innings, West Indies managed only 165, as Steve Harmison (4), Andrew Flintoff, and Ashley Giles, with three wickets each, ran through the batting. Set a target of 231, England chased it down comfortably, thanks to an unbeaten 93 from Rob Key and 57* from Andrew Flintoff, which set up their seven-wicket win.

2. 277 by England vs. Pakistan, 2020

This Test was played in an empty Manchester stadium due to Covid regulations. Pakistan posted 326 in the first innings, with Shan Masood scoring 156. England replied with 219, with Ollie Pope contributing 62. Yasir Shah impressed with figures of 4/66.

In their second innings, Pakistan had a lead of 107 runs but could only add 169 more. This meant England needed 277 to win. At 117/5, they were in trouble, but Chris Woakes (84*) and Jos Buttler (75) produced a match-winning partnership to seal a thrilling three-wicket victory.

1. 294 by England vs. New Zealand, 2008

The highest successful chase in Manchester came in 2008 when England defeated New Zealand. The Kiwis posted 381 in their first innings, with Ross Taylor scoring 154 and fifties from Jamie How and Kyle Mills. England managed only 202 in reply, with Andrew Strauss top-scoring with 60, while Daniel Vettori took a five-wicket haul.

In the second innings, New Zealand collapsed for 114, as Monty Panesar took 6/37. Set a target of 294, England chased it down with six wickets to spare. Andrew Strauss led the way with 106, supported by Michael Vaughan (48) and Kevin Pietersen (42).

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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