Ask the Spider #46

What was the average 60-over ODI score by the team batting first between serious sides when the full 60 overs were completed?

In the 36 games (East Africa and Canada excluded) where a 60-over ODI first-innings was completed, 259 was the average total.

Who has scored the most Test runs without making a half-century?

England’s Fred Trueman wasn’t the worst batsman you’ll ever see – he was good enough to score 981 runs in his 67 Tests, and he made 3 First-Class centuries. But his top score for England was 39*.

Has any bowler who has played 50 Tests gone through his entire Test career without going wicketless?

Yes, two people, and it’s Trueman again who leads the way. He’s joined by West Indian Joel Garner, who played 58 and got on the wicket tally in every one.

Who and when was the first ever Match Referee?

Former England captain MJK Smith was the first to be given this position, in the 1991/92 Australia vs. India series.

And who has Refereed the most matches?

Not surprisingly, the man widely regarded as the best in the business, by both ICC officials and the players – Sri Lanka’s Ranjan Madugalle. He has more than double the number of games of the next man, Clive Lloyd, who has had several time-outs from his role to take on various positions with the WICB.

What’s the highest Test score where no batsman made a hundred-and-fifty?

668, which Australia racked-up in 1955 at Kensington Oval. Seven batsmen made between 46 and 137, but Keith Miller, with the latter, was the top-scorer.

Who has scored the most Test centuries without converting any to doubles?

Colin Cowdrey and Mohammad Azharuddin both made 22 Test centuries, but neither managed 200. Azharuddin was cruelly robbed, however – his best was 199. Cowdrey’s best was 182.