Edge-zone

“One of the greatest ever test innings … unbelievable savagery”. Nathan Astle produced the most astounding display of cricketing artistry in hitting the fastest double-century in test cricketing history in the first test against England, reaching 200 off 153 balls, and earning himself, “a place among the immortals”. The second century came off his flashing blade in just 39 deliveries, eclipsing the previous record by an amazing 59 balls. International cricketing legends could not remember a time when the ball had been hit so cleanly, so often. “Only the richter scale could measure its magnitude.” “It was the most destructive of all test innings.”