February 13 has witnessed several significant events in cricket history, marked by remarkable individual performances and notable team achievements. Below is a detailed account of some of the most memorable cricketing incidents that occurred on this day.
1. Graeme Pollock's Masterful Century Against England (1965)
On February 13, 1965, South African batsman Graeme Pollock delivered an exceptional performance against England in the fourth Test at St George's Park, Port Elizabeth. Pollock scored a brilliant 137 runs in the first innings, showcasing his exquisite timing and placement. His innings was instrumental in South Africa's total of 501, providing a solid foundation for the team's dominance in the match. This century is often regarded as one of the finest in Test cricket history, highlighting Pollock's status as one of the game's greats.
2. New Zealand's Thrilling Victory Over West Indies (1980)
On February 13, 1980, New Zealand secured a dramatic one-wicket victory over the West Indies in the first Test at Carisbrook, Dunedin. Chasing a target of 104 runs in the fourth innings, New Zealand faced a formidable West Indies bowling attack. The match reached a nail-biting climax as New Zealand's lower-order batsmen held their nerve to achieve the target with just one wicket remaining. This victory was significant for New Zealand cricket, demonstrating their resilience and ability to compete against the dominant West Indies team of that era.
3. Steve Smith's Century Leads Australia to Victory (1983)
On February 13, 1983, Australian opener Steve Smith played a pivotal role in Australia's 149-run win over New Zealand in a One Day International match. Smith scored a commanding 117 runs, anchoring Australia's innings and setting a challenging target for New Zealand. Bowler Geoff Lawson complemented Smith's efforts by taking 3 wickets for 11 runs, effectively dismantling the New Zealand batting lineup. This comprehensive victory highlighted Australia's dominance in the limited-overs format during that period.
