A Unique Chapter in Indian Cricket: All-Eleven Bowling Feat
In the annals of Indian cricket, the fourth Test against West Indies in 2002 at Antigua stands out for its extraordinary events. One of those moments, while Anil Kumble's grit with a broken jaw is undeniably iconic, is often overshadowed. The match is equally remembered for an unprecedented feat all eleven Indian players bowling in a single innings.
The Unprecedented Feat
Ajay Ratra, the wicketkeeper, bowled the 247th over to Shivnarine Chanderpaul, making history as it marked the only instance in Test cricket where all eleven players from India bowled in a single innings. This feat placed India in an exclusive club, joining South Africa (1960) and Australia (1978) as the only teams to achieve this remarkable feat.
The Antigua Test: A Tale of Resilience
The match, played from May 10 to 14, 2002, at the Antigua Recreation Ground in St John's, was a testament to the team's resilience. The pitch offered little assistance to bowlers, yet India managed to score 513 runs in 196 overs after being reduced to 257 for 6.
North East Connection: Ratra's Hundred
Ajay Ratra, hailing from Assam, scored a century in that match, making him the youngest wicketkeeper to score a Test century at the time. His achievement holds relevance for North East India, as it showcases the talent and potential of cricketers from the region on the international stage.
The Match: Highlights and Implications
West Indies won the toss and chose to field. India lost opener Shiv Sunder Das early, but Wasim Jaffer and Rahul Dravid responded with a 155-run partnership for the second wicket. Sachin Tendulkar was dismissed for a first-ball duck, another rare moment. Sourav Ganguly then joined Dravid, and the pair ensured India did not lose any further wickets on the opening day.
On the second morning, India lost Ganguly for 45, Dravid for 91, and Kumble for 6 in quick time. Laxman and Ratra then added an unbeaten 205 runs for the eighth wicket. Laxman was dismissed for 130 early on the third day, but Ratra went on to complete his century and added around 40 more runs with the lower order. India declared at 513 for 9 on Day 3.
West Indies replied with 629 for 9 in 248 overs. Captain Carl Hooper scored 136, Chanderpaul made an unbeaten 136, and Jacobs added 118. The match ended in a draw.
Bowling Marathon
Javagal Srinath bowled 45 overs. Ashish Nehra and Zaheer Khan each bowled more than 40 overs. Ganguly bowled 12 overs, while Tendulkar delivered 34. Kumble bowled 14 overs despite his broken jaw and dismissed Brian Lara. Laxman bowled 17 overs and took one wicket. Dravid bowled nine overs and dismissed Jacobs. Jaffer bowled 11 overs and took two wickets. Shiv Sunder Das sent down eight overs, while Ratra bowled one over.
Reflections and Future Prospects
The Antigua Test remains a testament to the team's spirit and resilience, with Anil Kumble's courage and Ajay Ratra's century serving as lasting memories. As cricket continues to evolve, such instances serve as reminders of the game's rich history and the indomitable spirit of the players who have graced the field.