2022: Australia Wins First Test Series in Pakistan After 24 Years
On March 23, 2022, Australia secured a 1-0 Test series victory over Pakistan, their first in the country since 1998. The series-deciding third Test in Lahore saw Australia dominate with Usman Khawaja’s consistent batting and Pat Cummins’ crucial wickets. This win marked a historic achievement in Australia’s cricketing history in subcontinental conditions.
2019: Last Islamic State Territory Retaken
On March 23, 2019, Syrian Democratic Forces captured Baghuz, Syria, marking the end of ISIS's territorial rule. The five-year battle against the extremist group saw major offensives in Iraq and Syria. The loss of Baghuz symbolized the downfall of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate, though remnants continued guerrilla operations in the region.
2018: Ball-Tampering Scandal Rocks Australian Cricket
On March 23, 2018, Australian cricketer Cameron Bancroft was caught tampering with the ball using sandpaper during a Test match against South Africa. Captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were found involved, leading to year-long bans for them and a nine-month ban for Bancroft. The scandal shook Australian cricket, leading to major leadership changes.
2015: New Zealand Reaches First Cricket World Cup Final
On March 23, 2015, New Zealand defeated South Africa in a thrilling semi-final at Eden Park. Chasing a revised target of 298, Grant Elliott's unbeaten 84 helped them win with a last-over six off Dale Steyn. This victory secured New Zealand's first-ever Cricket World Cup final appearance, marking a historic moment for the Black Caps and their fans.
2013: India's 4-0 Test Series Whitewash Against Australia
On March 23, 2013, India completed a 4-0 Test series whitewash over Australia, a first in their history. The final Test in Delhi ended within three days on a turning pitch. Cheteshwar Pujara's composed batting and R Ashwin's five-wicket haul dominated the game. Shane Watson, leading Australia for the first time, struggled to prevent India's historic series win.
2011: India Ends Australia's World Cup Reign
On March 23, 2011, in the World Cup quarter-final in Ahmedabad, India chased down 261 to defeat Australia, ending their 34-match unbeaten streak. Yuvraj Singh’s all-round brilliance, along with key knocks from Sachin Tendulkar and Suresh Raina, ensured India's victory. The win eliminated Australia, setting India up for a semi-final clash against Pakistan.
2007: Pakistan Coach Bob Woolmer’s Death Shocks Cricket
On March 23, 2007, the cricket world was stunned by the mysterious death of Pakistan's coach Bob Woolmer, found unconscious in his hotel room in Jamaica. His death, which came a day after Pakistan's shocking World Cup exit, sparked controversy. Initial reports suggested foul play, but investigations later concluded that he died of natural causes.
1987: Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh's Cricket Icon, is Born
On March 23, 1987, Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s greatest all-rounder, was born. A match-winner with both bat and ball, he played a key role in Bangladesh’s rise in international cricket. Known for his aggressive batting and sharp left-arm spin, Shakib has led Bangladesh to historic Test and ODI victories, including their first overseas Test series win in 2009.
1961: Dean Jones, ODI Cricket Pioneer, is Born
Born on March 23, 1961, Dean Jones transformed One-Day International batting with his aggressive running and stroke play. Famous for his double century in the tied Test against India in 1986, he also excelled in limited-overs cricket. A key figure in Australia’s rise in ODIs, Jones' innovative approach to batting set new standards for future cricketers.
1929: Cuan McCarthy, South African Fast Bowler, is Born
On March 23, 1929, South African pacer Cuan McCarthy was born. Known for his raw speed, he played 15 Tests from 1948-1951. His most memorable performance was 6/43 on debut against England in Durban. Despite his short international career, McCarthy's pace and aggression made him a feared bowler in South African cricket during the post-war era.
1919: Mussolini Forms Fascist Movement in Italy
On March 23, 1919, Benito Mussolini founded the Fascist movement in Milan, Italy, leading to a political ideology that would shape 20th-century history. The movement emphasized nationalism, militarism, and authoritarian rule. Mussolini’s rise to power eventually led to Italy’s involvement in World War II and his alliance with Nazi Germany.
1885: Umpire Jack Hodges Walks Off the Field
On March 23, 1885, during a Test match in Melbourne, umpire Jack Hodges abandoned the match after England players repeatedly disputed his decisions. Frustrated by their behavior, he refused to return after the tea break, making this one of the rare cases where an umpire walked off in protest, highlighting early tensions between players and officials.
1839: OK Enters English Language
On March 23, 1839, the phrase "OK" was first published in the Boston Morning Post. It originated as an abbreviation for "oll korrect," a humorous misspelling of "all correct." Over time, "OK" became one of the most widely used words in the English language, symbolizing agreement and approval in various cultures around the world.
