2018 – Afghanistan's Historic Test Status

Afghanistan, known for its meteoric rise in international cricket, played their first Test match against India in June 2018. Their entry into the longest format marked a significant milestone for a team that had developed rapidly in limited-overs cricket. With players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi leading the charge, Afghanistan continued to grow as a competitive force.

2016 – Virat Kohli’s Masterclass in WT20

Virat Kohli played a breathtaking knock of 82* against Australia in the T20 World Cup, single-handedly taking India into the semi-finals. Chasing 161, Kohli’s innings, filled with exquisite stroke play, is regarded as one of the greatest in T20 history. His exceptional finishing ability and calm under pressure reinforced his reputation as one of the best modern-day chasers.

2011 – India Enters World Cup Final

India defeated Pakistan in the 2011 World Cup semi-final in Mohali, a match that had immense political and cricketing significance. Sachin Tendulkar's crucial 85 runs and disciplined Indian bowling ensured a 29-run victory. This win set up India’s final clash against Sri Lanka, where MS Dhoni’s iconic six sealed India's second-ever World Cup triumph.

2007 – Lasith Malinga’s Four in Four

Lasith Malinga became the first bowler to take four wickets in four balls in an ODI, achieving the feat against South Africa in the 2007 World Cup. Despite Sri Lanka losing the match, Malinga’s incredible spell rattled the Proteas, reducing them from 206/5 to 207/9. His unique slingy action and ability to bowl deadly yorkers made him one of the best limited-overs bowlers.

2003 – India Ends Kenya's Dream Run

Sourav Ganguly’s unbeaten 111 powered India to a 91-run victory over Kenya in the World Cup semi-final. India posted 270/4 in a rain-affected match, with Ganguly leading from the front. Kenya, who had stunned many by reaching this stage, failed to keep up, getting bowled out for 179. Despite the loss, their campaign remains one of the most memorable underdog stories.

2000 – West Indies' Miraculous Win

Zimbabwe needed just 99 runs to win the first Test, and West Indies seemed doomed. However, a dramatic collapse saw Zimbabwe crash from 47/3 to 63 all out. Franklyn Rose took 4/19, while Curtly Ambrose’s 3/8 sealed the historic turnaround. This marked one of the most incredible comebacks in Test history, igniting wild celebrations at Port-of-Spain.

1989 – Tamim Iqbal's Birthday

Tamim Iqbal, one of Bangladesh’s finest openers, made an explosive Test debut with 84 runs against New Zealand. His maiden century in 2009 against West Indies was a match-winning effort. He set a national record with 154* vs. Zimbabwe in a steep chase. In 2012, his four consecutive fifties led Bangladesh to the Asia Cup final, cementing his legacy as a dependable batsman.

1982 – Richie Richardson's First-Class Debut

Richie Richardson faced the mighty Joel Garner on his debut for Leeward Islands against Barbados. After a first-innings duck, he showed resilience in the second, scoring 76, the highest in his team’s innings. His promising start paved the way for an illustrious career, where he became one of the most stylish and dominant West Indian batsmen of his generation.

1981 – Chanaka Welegedara's Birthday

Sri Lankan left-arm seamer Welegedara struggled with injuries throughout his career but had flashes of brilliance. His finest moment came in 2011, when his 5/52 against South Africa in Durban helped Sri Lanka achieve their first-ever Test victory in the country. Known for his ability to swing the ball, he remained a valuable asset in Sri Lanka’s pace attack.

1973 – Nicky Boje's Birthday

Nicky Boje, South Africa’s left-arm spinner, had notable performances, including a 7-wicket haul in a Test win over India. Though primarily a bowler, he also contributed as a pinch-hitter, scoring two ODI centuries against New Zealand in 2000-01. Despite struggling in some series, he remained a key allrounder, playing a significant role in South Africa's spin attack.

1969 – Karen Smithies' Birthday

Karen Smithies led England to victory in the 1993 Women’s World Cup, lifting the trophy at Lord’s. A determined left-hand batter and medium pacer, she was a crucial part of the squad. Despite receiving the OBE for her achievements, her tenure ended abruptly in 1999 when she stepped down as captain midway through a difficult tour of New Zealand and Australia.

1965 – Venkat's 10-Wicket Haul

Srinivas Venkataraghavan, one of India’s legendary spinners, dismantled New Zealand in Delhi with 8/72 in the first innings. He completed his only career 10-for as India secured a dominant victory. Though part of India’s famed spin quartet, he had limited chances due to competition. However, his contributions in the 1970s established him as a reliable off-spinner.

1951 – Madan Lal's Birthday

Madan Lal, known for his medium-pace bowling, played a crucial role in India's 1983 World Cup win. His 3/31 in the final included the key dismissal of Viv Richards. Partnering with Kapil Dev, he formed a steady pace attack for India. Though his Test career was moderate, his all-round abilities helped India in many crucial matches, making him a memorable figure in Indian cricket.

1885 – Vernon Ransford's Birthday

Australian left-hander Vernon Ransford played 20 Tests, with his defining knock being an unbeaten 143 at Lord’s in 1909. This innings helped Australia secure a historic win at the venue. A solid middle-order batter, he played first-class cricket until 1928. After retiring, he served as an administrator for Australian cricket, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.