Cricket enthusiasts, buckle up for a trip down memory lane as we revisit some significant events that took place on November 20 in the captivating world of cricket.
2009: Sachin Tendulkar’s Milestone Moment
On this day in 2009, cricket witnessed history in Ahmedabad as the legendary Sachin Tendulkar became the first player to accumulate 30,000 international runs.
During the final day of the Test match between India and Sri Lanka, Tendulkar achieved this remarkable feat by clipping an inswinging delivery from Chanaka Welegedara for a single.
This run comprised 12,777 Test runs, 17,178 ODI runs, and ten runs from the lone T20I. Tendulkar also notched up his 88th international hundred (43rd in Tests) and finished the day unbeaten on 100 as the match ended in a draw.
1987: Birth of Nathan Lyon
Australian offspinner Nathan Lyon, born on this day in 1987, embarked on a remarkable cricket journey.
Initially working as part of the Adelaide Oval groundstaff in 2010, Lyon’s bowling talent was spotted by coach Darren Berry.
Lyon made a stellar debut in 2011, taking a wicket off his first ball in Test cricket.
He went on to become Australia’s most successful Test offspinner, amassing 141 wickets, and played a pivotal role in various series victories, including the 2019 Ashes.
1971: Dion Nash’s Birthday
Dion Nash, born on this day in 1971, emerged as a formidable New Zealand cricketer, known for his spirited performances as a right-arm seamer.
Despite facing persistent back injuries that limited his appearances, Nash showcased his prowess by scoring a half-century and taking ten wickets in a Lord’s Test against England in 1994.
He played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s triumph in 1999, contributing to a historic win against England.
1996: Birth of Alzarri Joseph
Fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, born on November 20, 1996, gained attention with his impressive performance in the 2016 Under-19 World Cup.
Joseph made his Test and ODI debuts in 2016 and set a record for the best figures in his IPL debut in 2019, taking 6 for 12 against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Despite facing personal challenges, including the loss of his mother, Joseph continued to make valuable contributions to West Indies cricket.
1991: Jermaine Blackwood’s Birth
West Indian batsman Jermaine Blackwood, born on this day in 1991, has been a dynamic force in the cricketing world.
Known for his aggressive style, Blackwood made a mark early in his Test career, scoring a half-century on debut against New Zealand in 2014.
He played a crucial role in West Indies’ memorable win at Headingley in 2017, contributing to a four-wicket victory.
1955: Polly Umrigar’s Historic Double-Century
On November 20, 1955, Polly Umrigar scored India’s first Test double-century in the match against New Zealand in Hyderabad.
Umrigar’s outstanding innings of 223, combined with AG Kripal Singh’s century, resulted in a drawn match.
Three and a half years later, Umrigar achieved another double-hundred, setting a record for the highest score by an Indian batter in England.
These notable events etched in cricket history showcase the diverse and captivating journey of the sport and its legendary players.
