1994 – England End West Indies' 59-Year Home Record
England pulled off one of their most remarkable wins in Bridgetown, ending West Indies' 59-year unbeaten run at the ground. Alec Stewart struck centuries in both innings, Angus Fraser took 8 wickets, and Graham Thorpe's 84 helped secure a stunning win after being bowled out for 46 just weeks earlier.
1994 – UAE Play Their First ODI
The United Arab Emirates made their ODI debut in the Austral-Asia Cup against India in Sharjah. Though they lost by 71 runs, Mazhar Hussain impressed with a 70-run knock—their first ODI fifty. Most of the team were South Asian immigrants, with Sultan Zarawani, the native-born captain, leading the historic side.
1992 – Mohammad Amir Born
Left-arm fast bowler Mohammad Amir was born on this day. He debuted for Pakistan at 17, impressing with pace and skill. At 18, he became the youngest to take 50 Test wickets. His career was derailed by a 2010 spot-fixing scandal but he returned in 2016, playing vital roles for Pakistan until the 2019 World Cup.
1984 – India Win Inaugural Asia Cup
India lifted the first-ever Asia Cup title in Sharjah, defeating Pakistan in the final. Surinder Khanna top-scored with 56 as India posted 188. Pakistan were in the chase but collapsed after losing three wickets in three balls. Roger Binny's key breakthrough ensured India clinched the trophy in the 40th over.
1971 – Gavaskar's Twin Tons Seal Historic Series
Sunil Gavaskar's twin centuries—124 and 220—in the Trinidad Test against West Indies helped India secure a historic series win. Playing in his debut Test series, Gavaskar ended with 774 runs at an astonishing average of 154.80, setting a new benchmark for debutants and becoming a national cricketing icon.
1962 – Lester King's Dream Debut
West Indies pacer Lester King had a sensational debut against India in Jamaica. He tore through the Indian top order, claiming five wickets in just four overs, finishing with seven in the match. Despite such brilliance, competition from other great pacers limited him to just one more Test appearance later on.
1867 – Birth of Dual International Sammy Woods
Sammy Woods, born on this day, was a rare dual-sport international who played Test cricket for both England and Australia and also earned 13 rugby caps for England. A Somerset legend, he was known for bowling unchanged through entire innings and for his commitment to sport during the late 19th century.