OTD: Ian and Greg Chappell became brother pair to score centuries in same Test innings in 1972

Ian and Greg Chappell made history on this day in 1972, more than 50 years ago, when they became the first brothers to score a century each in a single Test innings. They accomplished this extraordinary achievement in the fifth and last red-ball match versus England at The Oval. England were leading the series 2-1 and on course to win the Ashes, but Australia managed to draw level in the series.

After winning the toss, England chose to bat first but they were unable to start well. The innings had to be revived by knocks from John Hampshire (42) and Peter Parfitt (51) as the hosts then reached 284 thanks to a top-scoring 92 from wicketkeeper Alan Knott. Ashley Mallett claimed three wickets for the visitors, while Dennis Lillee claimed five.

The Australian openers were unable to establish a solid foundation for the squad. The Chappell brothers, however, hammered balls all over the park, maintaining their composure to steady the innings. The brother duo added 201 runs for the third wicket as Greg made 113 off 226 while Ian made 118 off 267 to create history. Australia had a 115-run lead when their innings ended at 399. For England, Derek Underwood took four wickets.

With 90 from Barry Wood and 63 from Knott, England were able to score 356 in the second innings. With five wickets, Lillee was once again Australia’s best bowler.

Set 242 runs to chase, Ian (37) and Keith Stackpole (79) contributed 116 runs for the second wicket. Then Paul Sheahan (44*) and Rod Marsh (43*) played battling knocks to ensure that Australia won the Test by five wickets. The Ashes 1972 series was tied 2-2 thanks to the Chappell brothers and Dennis Lillie’s efforts.

Ian Chappell retired from the game in 1980 with 5345 runs in 75 Tests with 14 centuries and 673 runs in 14 ODIs. Greg Chappell, on the other hand, retired in 1984, with 7110 runs in 87 Tests with 24 centuries and 2331 runs in 74 ODIs with three centuries to his name.

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