Sourav Ganguly’s Bold Move: All 11 Players Bowled in a Test Match Featuring Legends Like Sachin and Dravid
The fourth Test of the 2002 series between India and West Indies, held at the Antigua Recreation Ground, is etched in cricket history for Anil Kumble’s remarkable bravery. Despite suffering a broken jaw, Kumble took to the field in the second innings, showcasing his determination with his face bandaged. This match is also notable for a unique record: it marked the only instance in Test cricket where all eleven Indian players bowled in a single innings. The match concluded in a draw, with both teams displaying impressive performances.
Match Overview and Key Performances
The Test match took place from May 10 to 14, 2002, and was pivotal in the series, which was tied at 1-1 before this encounter. West Indies won the toss and opted to field first. India faced early challenges, losing opener Shiv Sunder Das for just 3 runs. However, Wasim Jaffer and Rahul Dravid steadied the innings with a solid 155-run partnership for the second wicket. Despite a rare first-ball duck from Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly joined Dravid to ensure that India did not lose further wickets on the opening day.
On the second day, India faced a quick succession of dismissals, losing Ganguly for 45 and Dravid for 91. Kumble, despite his injury, contributed 6 runs before being dismissed. The highlight of India’s innings came from VVS Laxman and Ajay Ratra, who formed an unbeaten 205-run partnership for the eighth wicket. Laxman scored 130 runs, while Ratra went on to complete his century, becoming the youngest wicketkeeper to achieve this milestone at the time. India declared their innings at 513 runs after 196 overs.
West Indies’ Response and Record-Breaking Bowling
In response, West Indies put up a formidable total, scoring 629 runs for 9 wickets in 248 overs. The innings featured impressive centuries from captain Carl Hooper and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, both scoring 136 runs, while wicketkeeper Ridley Jacobs added 118 runs. This match was particularly significant as it marked the first time in Test history that both teams’ regular wicketkeepers scored centuries in the same match.
India’s bowling strategy was unique, as all eleven players contributed to the bowling attack. Javagal Srinath led the charge with 45 overs, while Ashish Nehra and Zaheer Khan each bowled over 40 overs. Notably, Kumble, despite his broken jaw, bowled 14 overs and managed to dismiss the legendary Brian Lara. The match ended in a draw, with both teams showcasing their batting prowess and resilience.
Anil Kumble’s Courage and Legacy
Anil Kumble’s performance in this Test is remembered as one of the most courageous acts in cricket history. His determination to bowl with a broken jaw left a lasting impression on fans and players alike. Viv Richards, a cricket legend, remarked that Kumble’s actions were among the bravest he had witnessed on the field. Kumble’s ability to dismiss Brian Lara under such circumstances further solidified his legacy as a fighter and a true sportsman.
Ajay Ratra, reflecting on the match years later, expressed pride in scoring a century on foreign soil and recalled the tense atmosphere when Kumble was injured. He noted the blood on the crease and how it initially made him nervous, but he gained confidence while batting alongside Laxman. Ratra’s insights highlight the emotional and physical challenges faced by players during this historic Test match, making it a memorable chapter in cricket history.
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