2001 – Tragedy at Antigua ODI

The second ODI between West Indies and South Africa in Antigua was marred by tragedy when a local man, Craig Edwards, was fatally stabbed during an altercation in the Double Decker stand. The incident shocked the cricketing world and raised serious concerns about stadium security and crowd safety in Caribbean venues.

1993 – Carl Hooper's First Test Century

West Indies allrounder Carl Hooper finally scored his maiden Test hundred, an unbeaten 178 against Pakistan in Antigua. His innings included four sixes and came off just 247 balls. Hooper added a record 106 runs for the last wicket with Courtney Walsh, masterfully shielding him from the strike as Walsh made a quickfire 30.

1990 – Simon O'Donnell's Record 50

Australian allrounder Simon O'Donnell hammered a then-world record 50 off just 18 balls against Sri Lanka in Sharjah. He ended with 74* from 29 deliveries, hitting six fours and four sixes. His blitz helped Australia post a big total and set a new benchmark for rapid scoring in ODIs, inspiring others like Jayasuriya later.

1986 – Yasir Shah Born

Pakistani legspinner Yasir Shah was born. Known for his quick rise, he filled the void left by Saeed Ajmal’s ban and became the fastest Pakistani to 50 and 200 Test wickets. Notable performances include 10 wickets at Lord's and 14 against New Zealand in Dubai. His classical legspin won games, especially in UAE conditions.

1982 – Johan Botha Born

South African spinner Johan Botha was born. He made his debut in 2006 but was soon reported for a suspect action. Despite multiple challenges, he returned to become a useful ODI and T20I player, even captaining South Africa. Later, he moved to Australia to lead South Australia, showing resilience and adaptability.

1969 – Brian Lara Born

West Indies legend Brian Lara, born on this day, is revered for record-breaking knocks like 375, 400*, and 501*. His flair and aggression made him a fan favorite. Despite captaincy challenges and internal team issues, Lara's batting brilliance shone through, earning him a place among the greatest players in history.

1960 – Ravi Ratnayeke Born

Sri Lankan seamer Ravi Ratnayeke was born. A key player in the 1980s, he stood out with limited support, taking 8 for 83 in Sialkot and 5 for 37 in a historic win against Pakistan. Also a capable batter, he scored five Test fifties. His all-round skills and persistence helped lay the foundation for future Lankan stars.

1901 – Bob Wyatt Born

England’s Bob Wyatt, born today, was a reliable and studious batter who played 40 Tests from 1927 to 1937. Comfortable at various positions, he made two Test centuries against South Africa. He captained England 16 times and was vice-captain during the infamous Bodyline tour, helping shape England’s tactics.

1894 – First One-Day Match

On this day in 1894, the first-ever one-day style match was played at Lord's, where MCC crushed Sussex. MCC scored 105 before dismissing Sussex for 42 and 59 in two innings on the same day. Though unofficial, the match resembled the modern limited-overs format and showed early signs of cricket’s evolving pace.