CRICKET
Top 5 iconic Test matches between India and England on Indian soil
As India and England gear up for their five-match Test series starting on January 25 in Hyderabad, anticipation runs high for a gripping encounter. The series holds significant stakes in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Reflecting on the historical intensity of their rivalry, we delve into the archives to present the top 5 memorable Test matches between India and England on Indian soil. From iconic performances to nail-biting finishes, these matches have left an indelible mark on cricket history, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this enduring Test clash.
#5. Chennai’s Redemption: India’s Historic 2008 Triumph
India vs England Chennai Test 2008 (Source: Twitter)
In the face of adversity following the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, the Chennai Test emerged as a symbol of resilience and cricketing spirit. England, having returned to India for the Test series, set a target of 387.
In a nail-biting chase, India showcased extraordinary resolve, with Sachin Tendulkar’s unbeaten century (103*) and contributions from Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, and Yuvraj Singh (85*) leading them to a historic victory. This match, marked by mutual respect and a shared love for the game, encapsulated the spirit of cricket and served as a beacon of hope during challenging times.
#4. Pietersen’s Masterclass: England stuns India by 10 wickets in 2012
India vs England Mumbai Test 2012 (Source: Twitter)
In the 2012 Mumbai Test, England staged a remarkable comeback, clinching the series 2-1 after being initially written off. The turning point came in the second Test at Wankhede, where Kevin Pietersen‘s masterful innings of 186 propelled England to a match-winning total of 413.
India, in response, succumbed to 327 and 142 in the two innings, setting the stage for England’s historic 10-wicket victory. This unexpected triumph showcased resilience and skill, underscoring the unpredictable nature of Test cricket and etching this match into the annals of cricket history.
#3. Amarnath’s Historic Century Ignites Mumbai’s Maiden Test, 1932
India vs England Mumbai Test 1932 (Source: Twitter)
In the historic Mumbai Test of 1932, the inaugural Test match in India, England triumphed by nine wickets, but the significance transcended the result. Lala Amarnath etched his name in history by registering India’s first-ever Test century, scoring 118 in the second innings.
His partnership with captain CK Nayudu (67) for the third wicket created hysteria, overshadowing England’s victory. Despite India’s first-inning 219, England posted a formidable 438. Amarnath’s heroics in the second innings, where India managed 258, remain iconic. The match, a testament to cricket’s roots in India, marked the beginning of a rich Test tradition on Indian soil.
Also read: Top 5 lowest team scores against India in Test Cricket
#2. Chennai Chronicles: Karun Nair Dominates England, 2016
India vs England Chennai Test 2016 (Source: Twitter)
In the 2016 Chennai Test, India clinched a resounding victory against England, winning by an innings and 75 runs. Despite a commendable first-innings total of 477 by England, India responded with a monumental 759/7 declaration. KL Rahul and Karun Nair starred with bats in hand, the latter achieving a historic triple century.
With a lead of 282, India’s bowlers, led by Ravindra Jadeja‘s exceptional 7/48, dismantled England for 207. This unforgettable Test showcased India’s dominance and marked Karun Nair’s brilliant but short-lived career peak, earning him the Player of the Match award.
#1. A New Dawn: India’s Maiden Test Victory, 1952
India vs England Chennai Test 1952 (Source: Twitter)
In a watershed moment for Indian cricket, the 1952 Chennai Test marked the culmination of two decades of perseverance. After a series of draws and a loss, India clinched their maiden Test victory against England in the fifth match. Vinoo Mankad’s stellar eight-wicket performance restricted England to 266, paving the way for India’s dominance.
Centuries by Pankaj Roy and Polly Umrigar led India to declare at 457 for 9. In response, England faltered, getting bundled out for 183. India secured a resounding win by an innings and eight runs, etching a historic chapter in their cricketing journey.