Described as the oldest and purest form of cricket, Test cricket can last up to five days and demands both physical and mental endurance from players. Success requires a combination of skill, technique, patience, and temperament, as the players must perform in all aspects of the game over a prolonged period.
As the match progresses, the pitch becomes more challenging for batting, particularly during the fourth innings when the pressure is high for the batting team to chase a target or secure a draw.
The pitch can produce unpredictable bounce and sharp turn, making shot selection a daunting task for even the most skilled batters. If the game reaches the final day, cracks in the pitch can cause the ball to deviate and cause problems for the batsmen.
Despite his reputation as a fourth innings specialist, VVS Laxman did not make the all-time fourth innings Test XI chosen by Wisden. The team features Sunil Gavaskar and Graeme Smith as the opening pair, followed by Don Bradman and Ricky Ponting at No.3 and 4, with Ponting as captain.
Younis Khan, Rishabh Pant as wicketkeeper, and Sir Garry Sobers round out the middle order, while Shane Warne, Curtly Ambrose, Rangana Herath, and Glenn McGrath form a formidable bowling attack.
Wisden’s all-time 4th innings Test XI: 1. Sunil Gavaskar. 2. Graeme Smith. 3. Don Bradman. 4. Ricky Ponting (C). 5. Younis Khan. 6. Rishabh Pant (WK). 7. Garry Sobers. 8. Shane Warne. 9. Curtly Ambrose. 10. Rangana Herath. 11. Glenn McGrath.