1963
Roger Harper, one of Caribbean’s great cricketers, was born on this day. Harper, famous for his fielding capabilities was a popular offspinner for West Indies at his time. His 46 Test wicket came from 25 matches at an average 28.06, the lowest by a West Indies’ spinner.
1966
Andrew Hudson, the South African opener, was born on this day. He was the first South African to make a century on debut, a feat that was not emulated until Jacques Rudolph scored 222 not out against a rather friendlier Bangladesh attack in April 2003. But he made that 163 in nine-hours, a match that is still not found.
1977
The Centenary Test in Melbourne came to an end with Australia beating England by 45 runs – exactly the same margin as in the first Test played on the same ground, 100 years back.
1996
Sri Lanka won the World Cup as underdogs. They had a comprehensive win against Australia in the final in Lahore. Aravinda de Silva made a wonderful 107 not out. He also took three wickets and two catches. Arjuna Ranatunga hit the winning runs with 22 balls and seven wickets to spare.
