Flashback – India’s first Test at Edgbaston

India are all set to take on England in the second Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at the iconic Edgbaston, Birmingham. After the first Test turned out to be a riveting affair, the second Test, which commences on Wednesday, July 2, promises to be another humdinger.
India do not have happy memories of playing at Edgbaston, Birmingham. In eight Test matches played between India and England at the picturesque venue, the latter has emerged victorious on seven occasions. One game ended in a draw.

The first-ever meeting between India and England at Edgbaston was in July 1967. Brian Close-led England batted first and posted 298. Ken Barrington and John Murray scored 75 and 77, respectively, while Colin Milburn also contributed with a fluent 65-ball 40. Bhagwath Chandrasekhar and Erapalli Prasanna bagged three wickets apiece for the tourists.
In India’s first innings, the England bowlers ruled the roost. David Brown and Robin Hobbs picked up three wickets apiece, while John Snow and Ray Illingworth chipped in with two each as India were bowled out for 92, with only four batters reaching double figures.

Having taken a huge lead of 206 runs, England did not get off to a great start as Geoffrey Boycott fell early. The hosts slumped to 66/4 before Close and Dennis Amiss added a crucial 78-run stand. England were eventually bowled out for 203 runs in 76.5 overs as Prasanna was the pick of the bowlers, bagging a four-for.
Chasing a huge target of 410 runs, India got off to a sedate start as the openers added 48 runs. Farokh Engineer was the first Indian batter to be dismissed in the fourth innings. Budhi Kunderan failed to convert his start, but Ajit Wadekar played a valiant 70-run knock. Skipper Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi also showed resilience and scored 47 runs off 145 balls. Chandrasekhar threw his bat around in the back end of the innings to score a quickfire 22, batting at No. 11.

However, India were bowled eventually out for 277, as Illingworth and Close picked up four wickets each as the home team won the encounter by 132 runs.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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