Australia is renowned for producing some of the fastest and most challenging cricket wickets in the world, and the Gabba in Brisbane is a prime example. Known for its bouncy and seaming conditions, combined with long side boundaries, the venue has consistently tested the mettle of batsmen.
Over the years, numerous touring teams have faltered on Queensland’s lively tracks, with Australia maintaining an incredible 32-year unbeaten streak in Tests at the Gabba until India famously ended it in 2021. However, amidst these challenging conditions, a handful of batsmen have risen above the odds, crafting memorable innings that have steered their teams into commanding positions.
5. Greg Chappell – 201 vs Pakistan, 1981
Greg Chappell scored a brilliant double century against Pakistan in the second Test of the 1981-82 series at the Gabba. Chasing Pakistan’s first innings total of 291, Chappell’s 201 runs off 296 balls helped Australia reach 512 in their first innings. His outstanding performance played a key role in Australia’s 10-wicket victory, earning him the Player of the Match award.
4. Keith Stackpole – 207 vs England, 1970
Keith Stackpole made history in 1970 by scoring 207 against England in Brisbane, setting the record for the highest score by an opener at the venue. His marathon knock, which included 25 boundaries and a six, was instrumental in Australia posting 433 in the first innings. Despite his efforts, the match ended in a draw.
3. Sir Don Bradman – 226 vs South Africa, 1931
Widely regarded as the greatest Test batter of all time, Sir Don Bradman dominated South Africa in the opening Test of the 1937-38 series. Playing at No. 3, he smashed 226 runs off 277 balls, guiding Australia to a total of 450 in their first innings. Australia won the match by an innings and 163 runs, with Bradman’s monumental innings playing a crucial role in the victory.
2. Alastair Cook – 235* vs Australia, 2010
Alastair Cook played a marathon knock of 235* against Australia at the Gabba in the 2010-11 Ashes series. His innings, spanning 428 balls and including 26 boundaries, helped England post 517/1 in their second innings. The match ended in a draw, with Cook being named Player of the Match for his exceptional 302-run performance over the course of the game.
1. Michael Clarke – 259* vs South Africa, 2012
Michael Clarke holds the record for the highest individual score at the Gabba, with an unbeaten 259* against South Africa in 2012. Chasing South Africa’s first innings total of 450, Clarke played a dominant knock, striking at over 65. The match ended in a draw, and Clarke’s brilliant double century earned him the Player of the Match award.
