2022 – Maharaj spins a record

South Africa completed a 2-0 sweep over Bangladesh in Gqeberha. Keshav Maharaj starred with a second consecutive seven-wicket haul in the fourth innings, becoming the first in Test history to do so. He also top-scored with 84 from No. 8. Covid-related substitutions occurred as Sarel Erwee and Wiaan Mulder were replaced mid-match.

2018 – Shafiqullah smashes fastest double ton

Afghanistan’s Shafiqullah Shafaq blasted the fastest-ever first-class double-century, reaching 200 in just 89 balls during the Ahmad Shah Abdali tournament. He smashed 24 sixes, setting a world record, and came in at 58/3 to turn the game. His explosive innings earned him the Man of the Match award in the drawn fixture.

2012 – Chanderpaul fights, but Australia win

In a tense Test in Barbados, West Indies came close to upsetting Australia. Shivnarine Chanderpaul's unbeaten century gave West Indies a first-innings lead, but a collapse followed. Narsingh Deonarine took four wickets late, but Australia’s tail held firm under fading light to clinch a nervy three-wicket win on the final day.

2000 – Hansie Cronje confesses

Hansie Cronje’s stunning confession to match-fixing came just days after he denied all allegations. Tapes revealed his dealings with bookmakers. His call at 3am to Ali Bacher marked the end of his captaincy. Cronje later gave tearful testimony to the King Commission, unveiling the depth of his involvement in the scandal.

1995 – Anwar leads, but Jayasuriya dazzles

Saeed Anwar captained Pakistan for the first time in an Asia Cup match against Sri Lanka, but failed with the bat, scoring only 4 off 23 balls. Pakistan’s total of 179 wasn’t enough as Sanath Jayasuriya hammered a quickfire 30 off 15 to help Sri Lanka cruise to a five-wicket win with 19 overs remaining in Sharjah.

1992 – Lara dominates in Windies win

Brian Lara's blazing 86 not out led West Indies to a commanding 10-wicket win over South Africa in Trinidad. South Africa were bowled out for 152, with only three players reaching double figures. Lara punished Omar Henry severely, scoring 41 off his 4.5 overs. It was a dominant display from the Caribbean side.

1982 – Ian Bell is born

Ian Bell, born on this day, became one of England’s most elegant batters. He overcame early doubts with key performances, including Ashes hundreds in 2013 and a double-ton vs India in 2011. Despite struggles in later years, his calm demeanor and technique made him a mainstay in England’s middle order for over a decade.

1955 – Sobers' 85-Test streak begins

Garry Sobers began an incredible streak of 85 consecutive Test matches in Port-of-Spain against Australia. It was the first Test on a turf pitch in Trinidad, yielding 1255 runs and six centuries. Clyde Walcott hit two hundreds here and later added two more in Jamaica to record five tons in the series, a world record then.

1921 – Jeffrey Stollmeyer is born

Jeffrey Stollmeyer, a stylish West Indies opener, was born today. As captain in the early 1950s, he led the team during a thrilling 2-2 series draw against England. He played a key role in West Indies’ 1950 win in England and set up solid starts with Allan Rae. Tragically, he died in 1989 after being shot in his home.

1856 – Birth of Arthur Shrewsbury

Arthur Shrewsbury, born this day, was regarded as one of England’s finest early batters. Known for his rock-solid defense, WG Grace often preferred him in his team. He scored 3 Test centuries, including 164 at Lord's in 1886. Sadly, he took his own life in 1903 after struggling with health and financial concerns.