26 Years Since Anil Kumble’s Historic 10-Wicket Haul vs Pakistan
February 7, 1999, was a day that will forever be etched in the memories of cricket fans around the world, especially in India. On this day, former India spinner Anil Kumble achieved the unthinkable, becoming the second bowler in history to take all ten wickets in an innings of a Test match. Kumble’s incredible feat helped India register their first victory over Pakistan in 23 Tests, chasing a target of 420 runs, and bowling out the opposition for 207.
Kumble’s 10-wicket haul, which included 26.3 overs, 9 maidens, and 74 runs, was a testament to his skill, perseverance, and dedication to the sport. The 38-year-old spinner, who was already an established star in the Indian cricket team, proved that he still had it in him to make a lasting impact on the game.
The match, which was played at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium in Delhi, was a thrilling encounter that saw India take on Pakistan in a Test match for the first time since 1987. The visitors, led by Saeed Anwar, won the toss and elected to bat first, with the hopes of putting up a big total on the board.
However, Kumble had other plans. The Indian spinner, who was known for his unorthodox bowling style and ability to generate turn and bounce off the pitch, was relentless from the start. He picked up the wickets of Imran Nazir, Saeed Anwar, and Ijaz Ahmed, among others, to reduce Pakistan to 127 for 6 at one stage.
Pakistan’s lower-order batsmen, including Shahid Afridi, Mushtaq Ahmed, and Waqar Younis, showed some resistance, but Kumble was always one step ahead. He picked up the wickets of Afridi, Mushtaq, and Waqar to complete his 10-wicket haul, leaving Pakistan reeling at 207 for 10.
India’s victory, which was their first over Pakistan in 23 Tests, was a huge morale booster for the team. The win also marked a turning point in India’s Test history, as it was the first of several victories that the team would go on to achieve in the coming years.
Kumble’s achievement, however, was not limited to just the win. His 10-wicket haul was a historic moment that would be etched in the annals of cricket history. He joined Jim Laker, the legendary English spinner, as the only two bowlers to have achieved the feat.
The impact of Kumble’s achievement was felt far beyond the cricketing world. It inspired a generation of Indian cricketers, who were inspired by his dedication, hard work, and passion for the game. Kumble’s feat also showed the world that Indian spinners were a force to be reckoned with, and it paved the way for future generations of Indian spinners to follow in his footsteps.
In a recent interview, Kumble reflected on his historic achievement, saying, “It was a surreal moment for me. I had always dreamed of achieving something special in my career, and taking 10 wickets in an innings was the ultimate goal. It was a moment of pure joy and elation, and it’s a memory that I will cherish forever.”
As we celebrate the 26th anniversary of Kumble’s historic achievement, we are reminded of the impact that he had on Indian cricket. His 10-wicket haul was a moment of greatness that inspired a generation of cricketers, and it will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest moments in Indian cricket history.
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