1963
Arjuna Ranatunga, the left-handed batsman who has the feat to win the World cup as a captain, was born on this day. The Sri Lankan were among one of the players who had seen Lankan cricket in its nascent stage. Ranatunga debuted in the first-ever Test match of Sri Lanka. He led a fierceless side to win the World Cup in 1996 and that too by defeating Australia in Lahore.
1871
Archie MacLaren, the man who has lead England 22 times against Australia, was born on this day. The Englishman hit 109 in his first Test as a captain in Sydney in the series of 1897-98.
1947
The first-ever Test match between India and Australia was played in Brisbrane. Australia bowled India out for 58 in the first innings. Don Bradman made a majestic 185 on the first day. Later, Australia won by an innings and 226 runs.
1940
Mike Denness, the attractive batsman who became an ICC referee post-retirement, was born on this day. He first represented Scotland before moving to England. Denness captained England in 19 of his 28 Tests. During India’s South Africa tour in 2001, Denness (as ICC match referee) disciplined six Indian players, which led to a protest by the Indian board. Eventually the last Test in the series was downgraded to an unofficial match.
1901
George Lohmann, a medium-fast bowler with an astonishing Test average, died on this day. This Englishman was 36 when he died of tuberculosis. Lohmann had a Test record of 112 wickets at an average of 10.75. He had 8 for 7 and 9 for 28 against South Africa in 1895-96.
1948
Sarfraz Nawaz, the tall fast bowler, was born on this day. The Pakistani took 177 wickets in 55 Tests. Sarfraz, along with Imran Khan was a lethal opening bowler combination for Pakistan. It is often said that he was the man who gave Imran Khan the lessons on reverse swing.
1980
Mohammad Kaif, the captain of U-19 winning side, was born on this day. The Indian led the Under-19 side to victory in the Youth World Cup in 2000. Kaif was a crucial No. 7 batsman for India during the resurrection days of Indian cricket. He was the hero of India’s famous win in the Natwest series final in 2002 against England.
