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In the world of cricket, May 16 has witnessed its fair share of historic events and remarkable achievements. From controversial incidents that rocked the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2013 to impressive performances by legendary players, let’s take a journey through time and explore some of the most notable occurrences on this day.
What happened On This Day in cricket?
2013: IPL Controversies Shake the Cricketing World
During the sixth season of the IPL, the tournament faced one of its biggest controversies as three Rajasthan Royals bowlers, Sreesanth, Ankeet Chavan, and Ajit Chandila, were arrested by the Delhi police for their alleged involvement in fulfilling promises made to bookmakers.
This incident brought the issue of corruption in cricket to the forefront. Additionally, Gurunath Meyiappan, the team principal of Chennai Super Kings and the son-in-law of BCCI president N Srinivasan, was arrested on charges of cheating, forgery, and fraud. These events created significant turmoil within the cricketing fraternity and led to a series of resignations and investigations.
1956: Jim Laker’s Sensational Performance against Australia
In a tour match between Surrey and the Australians, the legendary spinner Jim Laker produced a remarkable feat by taking all ten wickets for Surrey. This achievement foreshadowed his famous performance later that summer, where he replicated the feat in the Old Trafford Test against Australia. Laker’s spin partner, Tony Lock, complemented his performance, taking 0 for 100 on a turning pitch. This memorable display of spin bowling showcased Laker’s extraordinary talent and set the stage for an unforgettable Test series.
2010: England’s First Global Tournament Victory
In the ICC World Twenty20 tournament, held in the West Indies, England achieved their first global tournament win by defeating Australia in the final. After a shaky start in the tournament, England bounced back with a string of victories, culminating in a dominant performance in the final. Bowler Ryan Sidebottom played a crucial role, taking 2 for 26, while Craig Kieswetter’s explosive innings of 63 off 49 balls propelled England to a comfortable victory, chasing down a target of 148 in just 17 overs.
1953: Warwickshire’s Collapse at The Oval
More remarkable events unfolded at The Oval where Surrey bowled out Warwickshire for 45 and 52 to win by an innings and 49 runs – all inside a day, which started late due to overnight rain. Alec Bedser took 8 for 18 and 4 for 17, with Jim Laker achieving a hat-trick. Ten Warwickshire batters recorded ducks, and their innings lasted a mere 75 minutes and 70 minutes. This incredible victory demonstrated Surrey’s dominance and showcased the brilliance of Bedser and Laker.
1906: Birth of Australian Fast Bowler Ernie McCormick
On this day, the Australian cricketing fraternity celebrated the birth of Ernie McCormick, a fast bowler who played 12 Tests just before the Second World War. McCormick was known for his genuine pace, but his career was plagued by persistent back troubles.
Similar to Shane Warne, McCormick made an impact with his first ball in Ashes Tests, dismissing Stan Worthington in the 1936-37 Brisbane Test and also claiming Wally Hammond’s first Ashes duck in the same match. Despite his talents, McCormick’s career was hindered by frequent no-ball infractions. He passed away in Tweed Heads, New South Wales, in 1991.
1938: Don Bradman’s Massive Innings at Lord’s
The cricketing world witnessed yet another remarkable performance by the legendary Australian batsman Don Bradman on this day. Bradman played a magnificent innings of 278 against MCC at Lord’s. It took him only 349 minutes to compile this mammoth score, which included 35 fours and a six. This remarkable display of batting prowess further solidified Bradman’s reputation as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport.
Leading up to the Test series, Bradman had been in exceptional form, amassing a series of high scores, including 258, 58, 137, 278, 2, 143, 145*, 5, and 30*. His incredible run of form continued during the Tests, where he amassed 434 runs at an average of 108. Bradman’s dominance in that era remains unparalleled, and his innings at Lord’s stands as a testament to his extraordinary batting abilities.
1972: The Promising Debut of Matthew Hart
May 16 marked the debut of left-arm spinner Matthew Hart for the New Zealand cricket team against Pakistan in Wellington during the 1993-94 season. Hart, who was just 21 years old at the time, was hailed as a promising talent with a bright future ahead. Although his career did not reach the heights initially anticipated, Hart showcased his potential with a match-winning performance against South Africa in Johannesburg during the 1994-95 season, where he claimed eight wickets.
Unfortunately, Hart’s career was marred by inconsistency, and his overall record did not reflect his early promise. Nevertheless, his memorable debut serves as a reminder of the excitement and anticipation surrounding young talents entering the international cricket arena.
1982: Nikita Miller’s Cricketing Journey Begins
Jamaican left-arm spinner Nikita Miller, born on May 16, made his one-day international debut in 2008. He made an immediate impact, taking two wickets in the two games he played against Australia. Miller’s skill and potential earned him a spot in the series against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi. While his Test career was limited to a solitary match during the home series against Bangladesh in 2009, where he went wicketless, Miller’s contribution in limited-overs cricket cannot be overlooked.
He displayed his batting prowess during the Champions Trophy, scoring his maiden half-century against Pakistan. Although his international career faced ups and downs, Miller’s journey as a cricketer represents the dreams and aspirations of many aspiring players in the cricketing world.
Other Birthdays on May 16
This day is also significant for several cricketers celebrating their birthdays. English cricketer Joy Liebert, born in 1914, Zimbabwean cricketer Gary Crocker, born in 1962, Sri Lankan cricketer Niroshan Bandaratilleke, born in 1975, and Australian cricketer Dirk Nannes, born in 1976, all share the same birthdate.
These individuals have contributed to the sport in various capacities and have left their mark on the cricketing landscape. Their birthdays serve as a reminder of the diverse talents and achievements within the cricketing community.
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What happened On This Day in Cricket Fraternity?
