THE HAMMERING

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo [September 10-11, 2023].

Heavyweights India were facing Co-Hosts Pakistan in the Super 4 of the Asia Cup. Interestingly they did have a face off in the group stage, but the match ended in a draw because of rain. Furthermore, to avoid washout of such a huge clash it was decided by the Cricket Boards to have one reserve day for the Super 4 Tie. It turned out to be a great decision because the rain did play spoiler on 10th September and the match eventually got over on 11th. 

 So now let's talk about this much-anticipated game. In the previous encounter at Kandy the Pakistani Pacers literally blew away the Indian Top Order. It was only because of Hardik Pandya and Ishan Kishan that we managed to reach a respectable total of 266. As a result, it was felt by many that the Pakistanis were entering the match as favorites and the pressure was upon Men in Blue. 

However, what happened in the next 2 days will be remembered by every Indian as well as Pakistani Cricket Fan. The Men in Blue literally hammered their Neighbor. It was literally a one-sided affair as India beat Pakistan by a margin of 228 runs. It was indeed a complete demolition of the Men in Green.

So how it unfolded. Let's go back to 10th September. On a batting friendly wicket Pakistani Captain Babar Azam won the toss and decided to field first. The Pakistanis were expecting that their bowling line-up will repeat their Kandy Heroics. However, this time the Indian Top Order literally blew away their pace attack. Captain Sharma (56) and Gill (58) provided India with a quick start as the duo batted at a run-rate of 7 runs per over and stitched a partnership of 121 runs. By the time both of them were dismissed the scorecard read 123/2 in the end of 17.5 overs.  

This is when Virat Kohli and KL Rahul got into action. The duo batted for 32 overs together and took India to a massive total of 356/2 in 50 overs. Virat Kohli scored a quickfire 122 of 94 deliveries, whereas KL Rahul in his comeback game scored a gritty 111 of 106 balls. They took every Pakistani bowler to sword. Virat Kohli hit 9 boundaries and 3 sixes to complete his hundred, whereas KL Rahul hit 12 boundaries and 2 sixes. It felt like Men were playing against Boys. 

The Men in Green needed 357 runs to win the game. It was never going to be easy and the only thing which they could have prayed for was rain. Fortunately, their prayers were not heard, and we had a complete game. However, what happened in the Pakistani Innings was as exciting as the Indian Innings. The Indian Bowlers came hard and knocked them out for just 128 runs. Kuldeep Yadav was the leading wicket taker for Indians as he picked up 5 wickets. It is interesting to note that on a pitch where Indian Batsmen were scoring so freely, the Pakistanis struggled to survive. None of their Batsmen managed to get even a half-century. It was such a dominating day for the Indians. 

We just not beat them. We hammered them.

To watch the Highlights of that Match, Click Here.  

  

THE SANGA SHOW

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Basin Reserve, Wellington [January, 2015].

In the Summer of 2014-15, Sri Lankan Cricket Team toured New Zealand to play 2 Test Matches and 7 One Day Internationals. The Hosts comfortably won the first test at Christchurch and the action now shifted to the National Capital. It was a must win game for the Lankans. On the other hand, even a draw would have helped Kiwis secure a series win.   

In this crucial test match, Sri Lankan Captain Angelo Mathews won the toss and elected to field first. The decision turned out to be a good one as the Lankan bowlers bowled out the Black Caps for just 221 runs in their first innings. Except Kane Williamson (69) no other Kiwi Batsman was able to reach his half century. For the Lankans, Nuwan Pradeep was the leading wicket taker as he picked up 4 crucial wickets. Apart from him Lakmal picked 3 and Dhammika was able to dismiss 2 batsmen.  

In response the Sri Lankans were struggling at 78/5. It seemed that the Kiwis will bowl them out in no time. However, this is when Kumar Sangakkara showed his class. He scored a magnificent 203 of 306 deliveries in which he hit 18 boundaries and 3 sixes. It was truly one of the greatest knocks Test Cricket has ever seen. Furthermore, it was an innings which was a treat to the eyes. Everyone was in awe with Kumar Sangakkara. Along with Chandimal and other lower batsmen Sanga stitched such wonderful partnerships that the Lankans ended up scoring 356 in their first innings. Hence, it can be said that it was only due to the efforts of Kumar Sangakkara which helped Lankans get a crucial lead of 135 runs. 

However, the Kiwis made a stronger comeback in the second innings as they declared at a score of 524/5. It is pertinent to note that at one stage the Kiwis were struggling at 159/5. Half of their side were down and they had a lead of just 24 runs. But, this is when Kane Williamson shared a historic 6th wicket partnership with BJ Watling as the duo took their team's score above 500. Kane Williamson scored a magnificent 242* ,while Watling too scored a gritty 142 and helped Kiwis set a massive target of 390 runs. 

In response the Lankans were bowled out for just 196 in their second innings. The Kiwis won the match as well as the series. Kane Williamson was awarded the man of the match award for his exceptional performance. However, no cricket fan can ever forget that classy knock of Kumar Sangakkara. It will remain in the memories forever. 

To watch the knock of Kumar Sangakkara, Click Here. 

  

THE END OF AN ERA

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai [14-18 November, 2013]. 

In October 2013, legendary Indian Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar announced his retirement from Test cricket and all other formats of the game after the second Test against the West Indies in November 2013. He had previously retired from One Day Internationals (ODIs) in December 2012 and from Twenty20 cricket following his participation in the 2013 Champions League Twenty20, wherein his team Mumbai Indians clinched the title. Interestingly his final match would be his 200th Test. Furthermore at Tendulkar's request, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) scheduled the match at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, his home venue.

The match started with a special gold coin toss, conducted by Indian captain M. S. Dhoni, who opted to bowl first. The coin, featuring Tendulkar's image on one side and the MCA logo on the other, was given to Tendulkar as a keepsake, and 1000 replicas were distributed to dignitaries. Union Minister Kapil Sibal unveiled a postal stamp in honor of Tendulkar, making him the second Indian after Mother Teresa to receive such an honor during their lifetime.

The West Indies were dismissed for just 182 runs in 55.2 overs, with Kieran Powell top-scoring with 48 runs. Indian left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha claimed five wickets. At the end of the innings, captain and wicketkeeper Dhoni reached 251 dismissals, becoming the seventh in history to do so. Right-arm off-break bowler Ravichandran Ashwin took his 100th Test wicket, achieving this milestone in just 18 Test matches. India's batting began with Murali Vijay scoring 43 runs. The day ended with India at 157 for two wickets, with Tendulkar (38) and Cheteshwar Pujara (34) at the crease.

On Day 2 Tendulkar and Pujara continued their innings, reaching scores of 74 and 113, respectively. Tendulkar notched up his 68th Test fifty but was dismissed for 74, missing his 101st international century. Rohit Sharma remained unbeaten on 111, scoring his second consecutive century. By the end of the second day, India had amassed a total of 495 runs, leading by 313 runs. Shane Shillingford recorded his fifth consecutive five-wicket haul in five innings. The day concluded with the West Indies at 43 for three wickets in their second inniings.

Resuming at 43, the West Indies were bowled out for just 187 on the third day. India won the match by an innings and 126 runs, completing a 2-0 series sweep. Ojha once again took five wickets in the innings. In an emotional farewell speech, Tendulkar thanked many people in his life and the audience, who responded with chants of "Thank you." Social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook saw trending hashtags such as #ThankYouSachin, #SachinSachin, and #SRT200. Afterall it marked the end of an era. 

THE BEGINNING OF THE KING KOHLI ERA

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Adelaide Oval, Adelaide [December 2014].

The Indian Cricket Team toured Australia from November 24, 2014, to January 10, 2015, playing two tour matches and four Test matches. The first Test, initially set for December 4 in Brisbane, was delayed due to Phillip Hughes' death, and Adelaide hosted the first Test from December 9, with Brisbane hosting the second Test from December 17. Australian Captain Michael Clarke won the won the toss and chose to bat on a flat pitch at the Adelaide Oval. 

David Warner started quickly, with Australia at 0/40 after 4 overs. Chris Rogers (9) and Shane Watson (14) were both dismissed by Ishant Sharma, catching edges to Shikhar Dhawan. Michael Clarke stabilized the innings while Warner scored his 10th century off 106 balls. Clarke retired hurt after scoring 60 due to a back injury. Karn Sharma claimed his first Test wicket when Warner was caught out for 145. Australia finished the day at 6/354, down from a strong 3/345, with Brad Haddin dismissed for 0 on the last ball.

On Day 2, Clarke returned to bat with a back brace, adding 51 runs with Steve Smith before rain interrupted. After resumption, Smith quickly reached his century, followed by Clarke. Rain delays persisted, but Smith reached 150 before Clarke was dismissed for 128 by Karn Sharma. Play ended early due to bad light, with Shami, Aaron, and Karn Sharma each taking two wickets.

Australia declared overnight, sending India to bat on Day 3. Shikhar Dhawan scored 25 before being bowled by Ryan Harris. Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara built an 81-run partnership until Vijay was caught behind off Mitchell Johnson for 53, leaving India at 2/119 at lunch. Pujara and Kohli added another 81 runs before Pujara was bowled by Nathan Lyon for 73. Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane resisted a late attack from Lyon, ending the day at 3/223. Rahane was caught off his gloves for 62 post-tea, with Rohit Sharma helping India reach 400. Kohli scored his second century at Adelaide Oval but was dismissed for 115. Wriddhiman Saha and Sharma took India to 5/369 at stumps.

Nathan Lyon took 5/134 as Australia dismissed India’s remaining wickets in the first session. The Australian openers reached 32 runs at lunch without losing a wicket. Karn Sharma dismissed Chris Rogers (21), but Warner and Shane Watson brought Australia to 1/137 at tea. Warner scored his second century of the innings post-tea, and Australia ended the day at 5/290, with Mitchell Marsh (40) and Steve Smith (52*) scoring rapidly. India's negative tactics were criticized, leading to fines for Warner, Kohli, and Dhawan.

Australia declared overnight again, allowing themselves 98 overs to bowl out India. Dhawan was controversially dismissed for 9, followed by Pujara (21) caught behind off Lyon. Vijay and Kohli added 45 runs, reaching 2/105 at lunch. Post-lunch, they extended their partnership to 185, with Kohli scoring his second century of the match. Vijay was lbw for 99, and Rahane was out for a duck shortly after. Rohit Sharma and Kohli added 35 runs before Sharma’s dismissal triggered a collapse. Lyon took his second 5-wicket haul of the game, eventually dismissing Kohli for 141. India lost their last 8 wickets for 73 runs, collapsing from 2/243 to 315 all out, giving Australia a 1–0 series lead. Lyon was named Man of the Match with figures of 7/152.

The 2014-15 Border Gavaskar Trophy was a pivotal moment in Indian cricket. MS Dhoni stepped down as Test captain after a series of defeats, handing over to Virat Kohli. Though initially considered an unlikely choice, Kohli's aggressive captaincy and outstanding performance, including twin centuries in his debut as captain, marked a new era for Indian cricket. Despite India falling short by 48 runs, Kohli’s leadership and batting excellence hinted at future successes. Under his captaincy, India won 40 out of 68 Tests, with Kohli averaging 55.36 and scoring 20 centuries and seven double centuries, making him India’s most successful Test captain.

To watch Virat Kohli's knock of 115, Click Here.

To watch Virat Kohli's knock of 141, Click Here. 

THE BEST OF LITTLE MASTER

 

Image Credit- ICC.

Venue- The Oval, London [September, 1979].

India's 1979 tour of England came right after the West Indies' victory in the second Prudential World Cup. It was a challenging summer for India, as they lost all three matches in the tournament, including a defeat to Sri Lanka, who were not yet a Test nation. In the 16 first-class tour matches, they managed only one win. Despite a heavy defeat in the first of the four Tests, India drew the remaining three, nearly pulling off a historic run chase in the final Test. Rain helped India secure a draw in the second Test at Lord's, and the third Test was also affected by weather, making the final Test at The Oval in late August critical for India's chance to draw the series.

In a summer marked by wet and cold weather, the sun finally appeared during the final Test. The first four days saw England build a 103-run lead. After struggling in their second innings, England's Geoff Boycott scored a measured hundred, and debutant David Bairstow's late hitting allowed Mike Brearley to declare, setting India a target of 438 runs. Few believed India could achieve this record target, with the focus shifting to whether they could manage a draw. Some members of the English media even criticized Brearley for his cautious approach. On the fourth day, Gavaskar and Chetan Chauhan made steady progress, finishing the day at 76 for 0 and needing 362 runs on the final day. Scoring 300 runs in a single day was unusual in the 1970s, making the target appear almost unreachable. However, Gavaskar was optimistic due to the good wicket.

A small crowd gathered on the fifth day, expecting an easy victory for England. Gavaskar and Chauhan added 93 more runs in the morning, reaching 169 for 0. A draw seemed likely, especially after Mike Hendrick suffered a shoulder injury. Peter Willey and Phil Edmonds took over the majority of the bowling, with Ian Botham and Bob Willis resting between spells. By afternoon, India was 213 for 0, halfway to their target. Gavaskar played aggressively while Chauhan was more cautious. Willis broke the partnership by dismissing Chauhan for 80. Vengsarkar came in with an attacking approach, and by tea, India was 304 for 1, with a larger crowd growing as a historic win seemed possible.

In the final session, England slowed the over rate. India began the last 20 overs at 328 for 1, needing 110 runs. When Vengsarkar was out for 52, India adjusted their batting order, promoting Kapil Dev, who failed to make an impact. It can also be said that Viswanath's late entry may have cost India the win. Furthermore just as we reached closer to the target, Gavaskar's innings ended at 221 with Botham picking up crucial wickets in his final spell. Despite some late resistance, India fell nine runs short, with the captains agreeing to a draw with one ball remaining.

Years later, Gavaskar's 221 is still celebrated as a remarkable effort in what could have been a historic victory for India. Despite the early setbacks, the tour concluded with a memorable match that highlighted India's resilience.

REFERENCE-

1. When Sunny made 438 look gettable- Martin Williamson [ESPN CricInfo].

2. Batting masterclass: How Gavaskar’s 4rth innings genius got India close to victory in England- Kush Singh [The Print].

3. On This Day – Sunil Gavaskar almost pulls off a miracle against England in 1979- DNA Web Team. 

4. When Sunil Gavaskar's Dogged Innings Almost Helped India Chase Down 438- Somak Adhikari [India Times].

To watch the knock of Sunil Gavaskar, Click Here. 

THE ARRIVAL OF THE PRINCE

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney [2-6 January, 1993].

The five-match Test series between the West Indies and Australia in 1992-93 was expected to be fiercely competitive. The West Indies had already seen the departure of key players like Viv Richards, Gordon Greenidge, and Malcolm Marshall, with more big names soon to follow. Meanwhile, Australia was emerging as a dominant team, a reality the West Indies faced in the first two matches.

The West Indies narrowly escaped humiliation in the first Test but faced a heavy defeat by 139 runs in the second match at the MCG. Centuries from Mark Waugh and Allan Border, along with Shane Warne's seven-wicket haul in the second innings, secured Australia's win. Despite the tense atmosphere in the West Indies dressing room, 23-year-old Brian Lara remained calm, setting the stage for his remarkable performance in the third Test in Sydney.

Having already lost one of the first two Tests, the West Indies encountered more difficulties as Australia declared at 503/9 in their first innings after winning the toss. Steve Waugh scored a century, while David Boon, Border, and Greg Matthews each contributed half-centuries. The West Indies then lost their openers for just 31 runs, teetering on the brink of their first series loss to Australia since 1975. However, skipper Richie Richardson and Lara refused to give up, forging a 293-run partnership for the third wicket. Richardson was dismissed for 109, but Lara, supported by Keith Arthurton (47), continued to dominate the Australian bowlers. During his 372-ball innings, Lara hit 38 boundaries, achieving his first double century at any level of the game.

Lara’s elegant drives, fierce cuts and pulls, powerful sweeps, and authoritative back-foot punches dismantled the Australian attack. Reflecting on the match, Lara noted how breaking records with each boundary motivated him to keep going. After nearly eight hours at the crease, Lara was finally run out, missing a triple century but securing a crucial lead for his team. Jimmy Adams added an unbeaten 77 as the West Indies posted 606, leading by 103 runs. Lara’s 277 remains the third-highest score by a visiting batter in Australia.

Although the match ended in a draw, Lara’s innings invigorated the West Indies team. Despite scoring only one more fifty in his next three innings, Lara's influence helped the West Indies win the final two Tests and claim the series 2-1. The fourth match in Adelaide was a nail-biter, with the West Indies winning by one wicket while chasing 186. In the final Test, they triumphed by an innings and 25 runs, even though Lara contributed just 16 runs. This innings at the SCG is still regarded as one of the greatest in Test cricket, and Lara’s legacy continued to grow throughout his career. His 277 in Sydney is fondly remembered, and he even named his first daughter Sydney in its honor.

REFERENCES-

1. 30 years to Brian Lara's magnificent 277 at SCG- Cricket.com [URL- https://www.cricket.com/news/30-years-to-brian-laras-magnificent-277-at-scg-1672887376163 ]

2.  SCG memories: The day Brian Lara’s genius was born- Dan Walsh- The Sydney Morning Herald [URL- Test cricket 2023: Remembers Brian Lara’s 277 at the SCG, 30 years on (smh.com.au) ]

To watch the knock of Prince Lara, Click Here. 

THE BEST OF BRIAN LARA

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Adelaide Oval, Adelaide [25-29 November, 2005].

In the Summer of 2005, West Indian Cricket Team toured Australia to play 3 Test Matches. The Hosts won the first 2 tests comfortably and were successful in winning the series even before the action reached Adelaide for the final test. However, there was still a lot to play for their Skipper Lara who was playing his last game in Australia. Over the last 13 years he has performed brilliantly in Australia. As, a result he wanted to end his Australian memories on a high. And Boy! What a performance he delivered in his final game Down Under. 

In front of lethal Australian bowling line-up which comprised of Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Shane Warne and Stuart MacGill, Brian Lara stood tall. When others were struggling to play their shots, he played a knock which every cricketer dreams to play. Lara scored a magnificent 226 of 298 deliveries in front of a packed Adelaide Oval Crowd. His innings comprised of 22 boundaries. Even though there was an early scare of him getting out LBW to Symonds, but after that he dominated every bowler who bowled to him. Be it pace bowling or spin, he put everyone to sword. Furthermore his innings was not only about power hitting, but also about class and timing. The elegance with which he batted was a treat to our eyes.  

Furthermore, it was only because of Lara's heroic that the Windies were successful in crossing 400 in their first innings. Unfortunately despite his valiant efforts the team lost the match by 7 wickets and were ultimately whitewashed. However, everyone present there was in awe of Lara who bid farewell to the Australian Audience in a grandest of style.

To watch the knock of Brian Lara, Click Here. 

A WIN FOR THE AGES

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Headingley Cricket Ground, Leeds [August 22-26, 2002].

In the Summer of 2002, Indian Cricket Team toured England to play a Triangular Series [England, Sri Lanka] and 4 Test Matches. After winning the Tri-Series Final at Lord's, all action now shifted to red ball cricket. Unfortunately at the end of two tests the Hosts were leading the series 1-0 and it was thus a must win game for the visitors to remain alive in this series. 

Furthermore, the Third Match was scheduled in Leeds which is dubbed as bowler's paradise. Apart from that the clouds in the morning made sure that whichever team wins the toss should elect to field first. Surprisingly Ganguly won the toss and elected to bat first. It seamed he made a wrong choice and the quick dismissal of Sehwag put India on backfoot again. 

It appeared England will blow away the Indian Bating Line-Up in no time. However, amidst challenging spells from Hoggard and Caddick, Bangar and Dravid demonstrated immense bravery, focus, and resilience to prevent further losses. India reached their first fifty just before lunch, showcasing their character in the opening session. Coach John Wright motivated Dravid at lunchtime, suggesting that a century under those conditions would be his best. Understanding the challenges ahead, Dravid continued his effort after lunch. 

Bangar played a crucial, often understated, role by partnering with Dravid for a 170-run stand over nearly five hours. He was eventually dismissed by Flintoff, but not before making a significant impact. Dravid achieved a rewarding century, which can be described as priceless in such conditions. As the day progressed, runs came more easily, and Dravid's stroke play was appreciated for its skill. Dravid’s innings epitomized his determination, concentration, and skill under pressure. He credited his natural temperament, a strong value for his wicket, long practice hours, and analytical thinking about his game. The following day, Tendulkar and Dravid accelerated the scoring, with Dravid departing after a masterful 148. Tendulkar, in his 99th Test, reached his 30th century, surpassing Bradman. In the late session, Ganguly joined Tendulkar, and despite fading light, they continued their aggressive play, leading to Ganguly’s century and a record partnership.

On day three, India declared at 628 for 8. In response, England’s openers started well, but breakthroughs after lunch, including key dismissals by Zaheer and Kumble, put India firmly in control. Despite resistance from Stewart and Giles, England ended day three at 264 for 9. The next morning, Kumble quickly wrapped up the innings. With a 355-run lead, Ganguly enforced the follow-on. Early wickets, including Vaughan’s, put India on top. Key dismissals by Bangar and consistent pressure from spinners Kumble and Harbhajan led to England’s collapse.

Hussain’s valiant century couldn’t prevent India from securing a comprehensive win by an innings and 46 runs. Cricket Analysts and Experts praised Hussain’s effort, noting the contrast between his secure play and Stewart’s struggle. India’s victory was a testament to their concentration, determination, and strategic planning. It was indeed one of India’s greatest overseas achievements, which show casted their self-belief and strategic prowess.

References- 

1. India vs England flashback: How Headingley 2002 marked the beginning of the ascent in Indian test cricket- S Giridhar and VJ Raghunath (The Firstpost).

2. India’s win at Headingley, 2002: When Ganguly’s brave call at toss was backed up by Bangar & Dravid- Mihir Bose (Scroll).

To watch the knock of Rahul Dravid, Click Here.

To watch the knock of Sachin Tendulkar, Click Here.