To understand brutal hitting in cricket, one must look at Australian batsman Don Bradman’s innings. Bradman’s century came in a mere 3 overs, a testament to his batting skills. His powerful performance continued throughout the match, leading to a total score of 256 runs. This remarkable innings is remembered as August 27, 1908, marks the 117th birth anniversary of Bradman.
His innings comprised 14 sixes and 29 fours.
This extraordinary feat took place in 1931, when T20 cricket was not yet a reality, and overs consisted of 8 balls. Bradman showcased the essence of aggressive batting.
During a match between Blackheath Eleven and Lithgow Eleven, Bradman was relentless against the bowlers. He played for Blackheath, contributing 256 runs to their total score of 357. He smashed 14 sixes and 29 fours. Lithgow Eleven attempted to chase 358 runs, but they could only reach 228 runs, resulting in a 129-run defeat.
Bradman’s century was achieved in just 3 overs, totaling 22 balls. He scored 33 runs in the first over, 40 in the second, and 27 in the third. In the initial over, he hit 3 sixes, 3 fours, 2 runs, and a single. The second over saw 4 sixes and 4 fours. The third over yielded 3 sixes, 2 fours, and a single.
First Over: (Bowler – Will Black) 6, 6, 4, 2, 4, 4, 6, 1: Total 33 runs
Second Over: (Bowler – Howie Baker) 6, 4, 4, 6, 6, 4, 6, 4: Total 40 runs
Third Over: (Bowler – Will Black) 6, 6, 1, 4, 4, 6: Total 27 runs