OTD | West Indies legend Brian Lara made his Test debut in 1990

On this day in 1990, Brian Lara made his international debut for the West Indies. The legendary cricketer represented his side in the third Test of the series against Pakistan in Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The match ended in a thrilling draw and Lara made a little impression by scoring 44 and 5 runs respectively. The Southpaw went on to become West Indies’ leading run scorer in Tests.

It was a good wicket in Lahore where both batters and bowlers could apply themselves. Lara had to face the likes of Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, and Abdul Qadir on debut. Batting first, WI was reduced to 24/2. In walked Lara facing a deadly attack on his maiden appearance. He saved WI from an early collapse and helped the seniors to have a go at the opponents.

Brian made a fluent 44(89) which included 4 boundaries. In his very first innings, he showed glimpses of his batsmanship. The visiting side posted 294 runs in their first innings. Carl Hooper was the best batter for the visiting side who scored a fantastic 134(220). Akram shined with the ball for the home side by claiming 4 wickets. Pakistan didn’t bat well in the first innings.

The home side had to face the lethal bowling attack of Curtly Ambrose, Ian Bishop, Malcolm Marshall, and Courtney Walsh. Curtly and Bishop broke no sweat to claim a fifer each to decimate the home side. While Ambrose finished with a spell of 20-5-35-5, Bishop returned with a spell of 19.2-7-41-5. Pakistan was bundled out for just 122 in their own backyard.

West Indies, in their second innings, scored only 173 runs. Lara scored only 5 runs. But the target was still huge. Pakistan had to chase 346 runs. The time was the only constraint that separated West Indies from victory. Despite their bowlers trying best, the visiting side could claim only 6 wickets. Pakistan batted better and avoided a loss. Lara showed glimpses of what he could do at the highest level.

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