In Test cricket, the role of a nightwatchman is both unique and risky. Typically, a lower-order batter is sent in during the final overs of a day’s play to shield more capable batters from the challenging conditions.
Their job is to survive, not score runs. However, every now and then, a nightwatchman defies expectations — none more memorably than Australia’s Jason Gillespie, who holds the record for the highest score ever made by a nightwatchman in international cricket.
In April 2006, during Australia’s tour of Bangladesh, Gillespie walked in as a nightwatchman late on Day 1 of the second Test in Chittagong. Not known for his batting prowess — he averaged under 20 in Tests — Gillespie stunned the cricketing world by scoring a marathon 201 not out. Over 574 minutes and 425 deliveries, he frustrated the Bangladeshi bowlers with grit, patience, and uncharacteristic flair. He also stitched a 320-run stand with Michael Hussey.
Gillespie’s innings remains iconic not only because of its unexpectedness, but also because it was Gillespie’s final Test appearance. What was supposed to be a temporary nightwatchman duty turned into a double century — an incredible swansong for a bowler whose primary job had been to take wickets, not guard them.
Before Gillespie, the highest score by a nightwatchman was 119 by South Africa’s Mark Boucher against Zimbabwe in 1999 at Harare.
Interestingly, no recognised batter in that match reached a double century, further highlighting the magnitude of Gillespie’s feat. His innings played a crucial role in Australia’s innings victory and remains a treasured moment in cricket folklore.
While nightwatchmen are generally not expected to light up the scoreboard, Jason Gillespie’s knock serves as a timeless reminder that cricket is a game where even roles defined by caution can lead to history-making performances.