Wides are extra runs given to the batting team when a bowler delivers the ball too far away from the batter. In Test cricket, bowlers need to maintain good line and length to avoid giving away unnecessary runs.
Some teams have recorded a high number of wides in a single innings. Australia, New Zealand and West Indies feature among the teams with the highest number of wides in an innings.
Top 5 Team Innings With the Most Wides in Test Cricket
| Rank | Team | Wides | Opposition | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australia | 21 | West Indies | 2008 |
| 1 | New Zealand | 21 | England | 2019–20 |
| 1 | West Indies | 21 | New Zealand | 2025–26 |
| 4 | Australia | 20 | New Zealand | 2023–24 |
| 5 | England | 18 | West Indies | 2004 |
1. Australia – 21 Wides
Australia recorded 21 wides in an innings against West Indies in 2008. It remains one of the highest totals in this category in Test cricket.
2. New Zealand – 21 Wides
New Zealand also recorded 21 wides in an innings against England during the 2019–20 Test series. This placed the team alongside Australia on the list.
3. West Indies – 21 Wides
West Indies recorded 21 wides in an innings against New Zealand during the 2025–26 Test season. This was another notable entry in the record books.
4. Australia – 20 Wides
Australia recorded 20 wides in an innings against New Zealand during the 2023–24 Test series. The record highlights how difficult it can be for bowlers to maintain control throughout a long innings.
5. England – 18 Wides
England recorded 18 wides in an innings against West Indies at Old Trafford, Manchester, in 2004.