The Oval has seen some of the most exciting successful run chases in Test cricket history. These thrilling pursuits highlight incredible batting performances, strategic gameplay, and memorable moments that have shaped the legacy of this iconic venue over the years.
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5. Sri Lanka – 219/2 vs England (2024)
In the third Test of the 2024 series, Sri Lanka chased down a target of 219 runs with ease. England posted 325 all out in the first innings, highlighted by Ollie Pope’s century. Sri Lanka responded with 263, featuring half-centuries from Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Kamindu Mendis. After bowling England out for 156 in the second innings, Sri Lanka comfortably chased the target, powered by an unbeaten century from Pathum Nissanka. England won the series 2-1.
4. West Indies – 226/2 vs England (1988)
During the fifth Test of the 1988 series, England set a target of 225 runs for the West Indies. After dismissing West Indies for 183 in the first innings, England posted 202 in their second innings, led by Graham Gooch’s 84. West Indies openers Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes scored 77 each to guide their side to a commanding eight-wicket victory.
3. Australia – 242/5 vs England (1972)
In the final Test of the 1972 Ashes at The Oval, England set Australia a target of 242 runs after posting 284 and 356 in their two innings. Australia’s Ian and Greg Chappell scored centuries in their first innings total of 399. During the chase, Keith Stackpole’s 79 and crucial unbeaten knocks by Paul Sheahan and Rod Marsh helped Australia reach the target with five wickets remaining.
2. West Indies – 255/2 vs England (1963)
West Indies chased 253 runs against England in 1963 at The Oval. England posted 275 in the first innings but were dismantled in the second by Charlie Griffith’s six wickets. West Indies responded with 246 and then bowled England out for 223, setting a 253-run target. Conrad Hunte’s unbeaten century anchored the chase, leading West Indies to an eight-wicket win.
1. England – 263/9 vs Australia (1902)
The highest successful run chase at The Oval is England’s thrilling 263-run chase against Australia in 1902. Australia scored 324 and 121 in their innings, with notable performances from Monty Noble and Hugh Trumble. England lost early wickets cheaply but Gilbert Jessop’s century and George Hirst’s unbeaten 50 powered a remarkable one-wicket victory.
