2011 – India Wins Second World Cup

India won their second ICC Cricket World Cup, 28 years after their first triumph. In the final against Sri Lanka at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, Mahela Jayawardene’s century put Sri Lanka in a strong position. India suffered early blows, losing Virender Sehwag and Sachin Tendulkar quickly, but Gautam Gambhir anchored the chase with a crucial 97. MS Dhoni promoted himself ahead of Yuvraj Singh and played a captain’s knock, scoring an unbeaten 91. His match-winning six off Nuwan Kulasekara sealed India’s victory, making them the first host nation to win the World Cup. The win ignited celebrations across India, marking a historic moment in cricket.

1996 – Jayasuriya's Record-Breaking Blitz

In Singapore’s inaugural ODI, Sanath Jayasuriya smashed a century off just 48 balls against Pakistan, setting a new world record. His explosive innings of 134 off 65 balls included 11 sixes and 11 fours, demonstrating his aggressive approach. His assault helped Sri Lanka win a match featuring a then-record total of 664 runs. Five days later, in the final, Jayasuriya continued his dominance, scoring 76 off just 28 balls, cementing his reputation as a game-changer.

1981 – Michael Clarke is Born

Born on this day, Australian cricketer Michael Clarke made an unforgettable Test debut in 2004, scoring 151 against India in Bangalore. As captain, Clarke led Australia to their fifth World Cup title in 2015. His leadership saw Australia dominate the 2013-14 Ashes with a 5-0 whitewash against England. Clarke was also a prolific batsman, scoring multiple double-centuries, including a triple-century in 2012.

1963 – Birth of Dermot Reeve

English all-rounder Dermot Reeve, born today, was known for his innovative cricketing strategies. He played a key role in Warwickshire’s dominance in the mid-1990s and was famous for his unorthodox tactics, including dropping his bat intentionally to avoid dismissals. He also had an impactful but brief international career.

1946 – Birth of Richard Collinge

New Zealand pacer Richard Collinge, born today, played a significant role in his country’s first Test victory against England. A skilled left-arm bowler, he also set a record for the highest Test score by a No. 11 at the time, scoring 68*.

1932 – Birth of Pakistan Seamer Mahmood Hussain

Mahmood Hussain, born today, was a key bowler for Pakistan in the 1950s. He played a vital role in Pakistan’s 1954 victory over England at The Oval. Though often overbowled, he was a tireless performer.

1888 – Birth of Cricket Writer Neville Cardus

Neville Cardus, born today, revolutionized sports journalism with his artistic approach. A cricket and music writer, his impact on sportswriting earned him a knighthood in 1967.

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