Quick Answer: Sir Donald George Bradman (1908–2001) is universally regarded as the greatest batsman in cricket history. His Test batting average of 99.94 is nearly 40 runs higher than the next best in history (Graeme Pollock – 60.97; George Headley – 60.83).

The Number That Defines a Career

There is one number that defines Bradman's legacy: 99.94. That is his Test batting average across 80 innings in 52 Tests between 1928 and 1948 (ESPNcricinfo – Bradman Statistics).

In his final Test innings at The Oval in 1948, needing just four runs to retire with an average of 100, he was bowled for a duck by England’s Eric Hollies — leaving the average at 99.94.

Who Was Don Bradman?

Donald George Bradman was born on 27 August 1908 in Cootamundra, New South Wales (Britannica – Don Bradman). He grew up in Bowral, where he developed his legendary hand-eye coordination.

In the 1930 Ashes series in England, he scored 974 runs at an average of 139.14 — still the highest aggregate in a single Ashes series (1930 Ashes Series Stats).

Bradman vs England: The Ashes Record

Series Location Runs Average
1928–29 Australia 468 66.85
1930 England 974 139.14
1932–33 (Bodyline) Australia 396 56.57
1934 England 758 94.75
1936–37 Australia 810 90.00
1938 England 434 108.50
1946–47 Australia 680 97.14
1948 England 508 72.57

The 1948 Invincibles

The 1948 Australian team went unbeaten in all 34 first-class matches in England, winning the Test series 4–0. They remain known as “The Invincibles” (Cricket Australia – 1948 Invincibles).

Bradman After Cricket

Bradman was knighted in 1949 and later became a Companion of the Order of Australia. His legacy lives on through the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame in Bowral.

FAQ: Don Bradman

What was Don Bradman's batting average?

99.94 across 80 innings in 52 Tests (ESPNcricinfo).

How many Test centuries did he score?

29 Test centuries. Highest score: 334 at Headingley in 1930.

Where is the Bradman Museum?

Bowral, New South Wales — Official Site.

Sources