Remembering Kumble's perfect 10
Indian spin legend, Anil Kumble scripted history by claiming a 'perfect 10' on February 7, 1999 at the Feroz Shah Kotla in Delhi. The spin ace became the second bowler in cricket's history, after Jim Laker, to claim all 10 wickets in an innings. The feat was even more special because it came against arch-rivals, Pakistan. In this article, we relive that special moment.
19 years since historic feat
It was a crucial match for India and a win was needed to avoid a series defeat on home soil. India had set a target of 420 for Pakistan with almost a day to spare. India ended the fourth day in a commanding position. On the final day, Pakistan turned the tide with the help of Shahid Afridi and Saeed Anwar's 100-run opening partnership.
Kumble turns on the heat, opens floodgates
This is where Kumble stepped in and raised his game. Afridi was the first to fall and that opened the floodgates. From 101 for no loss, Pakistan crumbled to 128 for the loss of 6 wickets. The visitors were now in trouble but Wasim Akram showed a bit of resistance, but that was not enough to halt the brilliance of Kumble.
India beat Pakistan for 1st time in 19 years
Akram was the last to fall when he was caught at short leg by Laxman. India won the match by 212 runs and claimed their first Test victory against Pakistan in 19 years. Kumble ended with figures of 10/74 and got the opposition all out for 207 after they were 101/0. Indeed, a historic feat which etched his name in the cricket books.
