Even when you say that South Africa beat England by an innings and 12 runs, it does not convey the magnitude of the defeat. After the first day's play, with England's score on 267 for 3, the headlines read: "England in control of first Test." England eventually made 385 to which South Africa replied with 637 for 2 declared. England was bowled out for 240 in its second innings. So, in reality, South Africa won by 18 wickets and 12 runs.
Looking at it another way, South Africa's runs per wicket average was 318.50 while England's was 31.25, a difference of 287.25. The Web site espncricinfo.com has all the stats on why this number makes this the most comprehensive victory ever in the history of Test cricket.
Noel Kalicharan
Via e-mail
