Top 3 performances of Madan Lal in international cricket

Madan Lal turns 75 years old on Friday, March 20. The former India all-rounder played 39 Tests and 67 ODIs for India. He scored 1042 and 645 runs, respectively. He was primarily a fast bowler, who took 71 wickets in Tests and 73 in ODIs.

Lal played a significant role in helping India win the 1983 World Cup. In the final against the West Indies, he took the key wicket of Vivian Richards. After calling time on his playing career, Lal has tried his hand at politics and acting, apart from coaching the United Arab Emirates and the Indian teams and serving as a member of the selection committee.

Here’s take a look at three of his finest performances in international cricket:

3. 4/20 vs Australia, 1983 World Cup

Before the 1983 World Cup final, Lal played a significant role in helping India win a crucial group stage fixture against Australia in Chelmsford on June 20. This was a must-win game for Kapil Dev and Co. Batting first, India amassed 247 in 55.5 overs as Yashpal Sharma top-scored with a run-a-ball 40. Lal was unbeaten in the end with a 15-ball 12.

In reply, the Australian batters were given a hard time by the Indian bowlers. Lal bagged a four-for in his 8.2 overs, giving away just 20 runs, while Roger Binny also picked up four as Australia were bowled out for just 129.

2. 5/23 vs England, First Test in 1981

Madan Lal produced his career-best bowling figures in Test cricket against England in 1981 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He made a comeback after more than three years in the format. However, there were no signs of nerves with his performance. Lal shared the new ball with Kapil Dev after India were bowled out for 179 in the first innings. The right-arm seamer only bagged one wicket but the other bowlers stepped up, dismissing England for 166.

In their second innings, India fared better and Lal also chipped in with an unbeaten 17. The home side was eventually bowled out for 227. Chasing a 241-run target, England were skittled out for 102, with Lal starring with figures of 5/23 in 12 overs.

1. 3/31 vs West Indies, 1983 World Cup final

India played the mighty West Indies in the 1983 World Cup final. Not many gave Kapil’s men a chance in this contest. Batting first, India were bowled out for 183, with Lal making a handy 17.

In reply, Lal dismissed Desmond Haynes and Larry Gomes. However, the biggest wicket he took was the one of Viv Richards, who was looking in fine form. Kapil Dev took an iconic catch to complete the dismissal. Lal eventually finished with excellent figures of 3/31 in 12 overs as rhe Caribbean side was bowled out for 140, with India winning their maiden World Cup title.

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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