2024 – Record T20 Chase by Punjab Kings

In a jaw-dropping IPL clash at Eden Gardens, Punjab Kings chased down 262 against KKR – the highest successful chase in T20 history. Jonny Bairstow blasted an unbeaten 108, with explosive support from Shashank Singh (68 off 28) and Prabhsimran Singh (54 off 20). The match saw a record 42 sixes and redefined the limits of T20 batting.

2019 – Alex Hales Dropped from England Squad

England's World Cup preparations took a hit when Alex Hales was dropped from all squads after a recreational drug ban. Having already faced disciplinary action earlier for a brawl incident, this setback raised concerns about team culture. Hales' exclusion sparked debate, but the decision reflected England’s tough stance on discipline.

2003 – Jacques Rudolph's Double on Test Debut

Jacques Rudolph made a sensational Test debut in Chittagong, scoring 222* and batting over eight hours in the heat. His partnership of 429 with Boeta Dippenaar was a record for any wicket for South Africa. Their dominant stand helped secure an innings win over Bangladesh and announced Rudolph’s arrival in world cricket in style.

2003 – Stephen Fleming's Career-Best 274

Stephen Fleming led from the front in Colombo with a majestic 274 – his highest Test score. Batting for more than ten hours, he crafted a captain’s knock that helped New Zealand reach 515 for 7. His calm and gritty innings was crucial in securing a draw and displayed his ability to grind against quality spin in tough conditions.

1996 – Shaun Pollock's 4-in-4 Debut Spell for Warwickshire

Shaun Pollock stunned Leicestershire with a dream debut for Warwickshire, claiming four wickets in four balls and finishing with 6 for 21. At one point, his figures read 5 for 1, and Leicestershire were 9 for 5. His spell drew praise from Allan Donald and earned him his county cap in a memorable Benson & Hedges Cup game at Edgbaston.

1990 – Allan Border's Bowling Brilliance

Better known for his batting grit, Allan Border surprised New Zealand with 3 wickets for 1 run in Sharjah during the Austral-Asia Cup. His golden-arm spell helped Australia win by 63 runs. Border’s career bowling average in ODIs was better than some frontline bowlers, showcasing his underrated all-round abilities.

1985 – Rutherford’s Rough Test Debut Continues

Ken Rutherford’s horror start to Test cricket continued in Barbados, falling first ball to Malcolm Marshall. After two ducks and a 4 as opener, he was moved to No. 3 only to get a golden duck again. His debut series ended with 12 runs from 7 innings, but he later rebounded to captain New Zealand and play 56 Tests with notable contributions.

1909 – Birth of Dick Howorth

Born on this day in 1909, Dick Howorth was a versatile Worcestershire allrounder known for his left-arm spin and flexible batting. He took a wicket with his first ball in Test cricket in 1947, a rare feat for England at the time. Howorth played five Tests, taking 6 for 124 in one match and remained a respected figure in post-war cricket.