OTD | India and England played their 100th Test match and also the 2000th overall Test in 2011

July 21, 2011, marked a historic day in cricket as it saw the commencement of the 2000th Test match in the history of the sport. This match was not only significant for being a milestone in the annals of cricket but also marked the 100th Test clash between India and England. The match was held at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, a venue that has seen numerous historic cricketing moments.

Indian cricket fans had high hopes for this match, especially with the anticipation of witnessing Sachin Tendulkar’s 100th international century. However, the game did not unfold as they had hoped, culminating in a 196-run defeat for India, which set off a series of losses that would mark one of the darkest periods in Indian cricket history.

Winning the toss, India skipper MS Dhoni opted to field first. This decision seemed to backfire as Zaheer Khan, India’s premier fast bowler, had to leave the field on the first day due to a hamstring injury. England capitalized on the weakened Indian attack, with Kevin Pietersen leading the charge. 

Pietersen, who had not scored a century on home soil for three years, made an impressive unbeaten 202. Contributions from Jonathan Trott (70), Matt Prior (71), and Ian Bell (45) helped England amass a formidable total of 474 in their first innings. Praveen Kumar was the standout bowler for India, claiming five wickets, while Zaheer Khan managed two before his injury.

Indian batting flattered under pressure 

India’s response in their first innings was underwhelming. Despite a promising start by Abhinav Mukund, who fell just one run short of a half-century, and a resilient century from Rahul Dravid, the Indian batting lineup failed to build substantial partnerships. Dravid’s unbeaten 103 was the only highlight in an otherwise disappointing total of 286.

In their second innings, England faced a spirited bowling effort from Praveen Kumar and Ishant Sharma, who reduced the hosts to 107 for 6. However, a century from Matt Prior (103) and a valuable 74 from Stuart Broad helped England recover and declare at 269, setting India a daunting target of 458 runs.

The Indian batting lineup collapsed once again under the pressure of chasing a massive total. James Anderson’s fiery spell saw him take five wickets, while Stuart Broad added three more to his tally. Only VVS Laxman (56) and Suresh Raina (78) showed some resistance, but it was not enough to avoid defeat. India were bowled out for 261, handing England a comprehensive 196-run victory.

Also read: The review system for umpiring decisions was trialed for the first time in 2008