Cricket has witnessed remarkable feats, memorable matches, and outstanding performances on the 18th of November throughout its storied history. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane to revisit some significant events in cricket history on this day.
2000: Andy Flower’s Astonishing Run
In the first Test against India in Delhi, Zimbabwe’s Andy Flower embarked on one of the most incredible runs in Test history. Flower’s unbeaten 183 marked the beginning of a prolific 13-month period where he amassed 1466 runs at an astonishing average of 133.27.
This remarkable stretch included five centuries and seven fifties. Flower’s stellar performance catapulted him to the top of the world’s batter rankings by the end of the year. However, like all good things, his run came to an end in 2002, with his first four innings yielding only 20 runs.
1989: Dinesh Chandimal’s Emergence
Born on this day, Dinesh Chandimal made a promising start to his international career. Debuting at the age of 21, Chandimal showcased his batting prowess by scoring 111 in just his second ODI. His Test journey began with notable success, contributing fifties in both innings during Sri Lanka’s historic Test win in South Africa.
Chandimal’s career featured highs and lows, marked by a brief drop from the XI in 2012. However, he rebounded in 2013, becoming Sri Lanka’s youngest-ever captain in T20Is. Chandimal’s leadership continued in Tests and ODIs, leading Sri Lanka to significant victories, including a historic 2-0 win against Pakistan in the UAE.
1988: West Indies Dominance in Brisbane
A familiar tale unfolded in Brisbane as West Indies demolished Australia for 167 in the first morning of their series. The lethal trio of Malcolm Marshall, Curtly Ambrose, and Courtney Walsh, along with Carl Hooper, wreaked havoc on the Australian batting lineup.
Gordon Greenidge and Des Haynes steered West Indies to a nine-wicket victory with a comfortable day and a half to spare, setting the tone for their dominance in the series.
1995: Graeme Hick’s Majestic Innings
In the inaugural Test at Centurion between England and South Africa, rain played spoilsport on the third day, denying any play. Despite the weather interruptions, Graeme Hick showcased his mastery with a majestic innings of 141 on a lively surface. Hick’s contribution helped England reach a commanding position at 381 for 9 before the rain-induced frustration kicked in.
2018: England’s Spin to Win in Sri Lanka
England celebrated a historic Test series win in Sri Lanka after nearly two decades, securing victory in the Kandy Test. Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali played pivotal roles, claiming 14 wickets between them, complementing Joe Root’s masterful second-innings hundred. This triumph marked England’s first series win in Asia in six years, highlighting their proficiency in spinning conditions.
1993: Zimbabwe’s Thrilling Tie Against India
In a thrilling One Day International (ODI) match in Indore, Zimbabwe found themselves needing 249 to beat India. The game took a dramatic turn as Stephen Peall and Heath Streak, batting at No.10, brought Zimbabwe within 12 runs of victory. With 10 runs needed off the final over, Streak and John Rennie fell short, resulting in a nail-biting tie – only the seventh tied ODI in cricket history.
These are just a few snapshots of the cricketing history that unfolded on the 18th of November. From astonishing individual performances to team triumphs, this date holds a special place in the annals of cricket history.
