This Day That Year: Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid made their Test debuts
On 20th June, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and
Virat Kohli made their Test debuts. These three Indian gems have become the
greats of the game.
Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid made their Test debuts
together
Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid made their Test debut
together at iconic Lords Cricket Ground, Lords on 20th June 1996. England
scored 344 runs in the first innings. In reply to 345, Ganguly came at number 3
and played with positive intent putting pressure on England bowlers. It was an
amazing inning knock by the stylish left-handed batsman. He scored 131 off 301
balls with 20 fours.
On the other hand, Rahul Dravid also played some lovely
shots which amazed the fans in England. He fell short of his century by just 5
runs. Both these players helped India post 429 runs. Despite their efforts, the
match ended in a draw.
Ganguly and Rahul became greats of the game. Under the
captaincy of Sourav Ganguly, India won historic Test series in Pakistan, drew
Test series in England and Australia.
Sourav Ganguly played a total of 113 matches (188 innings)
and scored a total of 7212 runs with an average of 42.17. He hit 16 centuries
and 35 half-centuries to his name. His best score in Test matches was 239.
The right-handed Rahul Dravid played a total of 164 Test
matches ( 286 innings) and scored 13288 runs at an average of 52.31. He scored 36
centuries and 63 half-centuries to his name. During his Test career, his best
score was 270. Dravid used to come at number 3 and make the bowlers bowl to him
due to his defensive technique.
Rahul Dravid is number 4 in the most number of runs scored in
Test matches. Both were a part of a strong Indian team that won historic matches
overseas.
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