Independence Day: Indian cricket team's record on August 15
The 2024 Independence Day marks India's 78th year of being free from the cruel British colonial rule. Not only economically, India has made remarkable progress in sports, especially cricket, since gaining independence in 1947. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is now deemed a powerhouse in international cricket. Have a look at Team India's international record on August 15.
Five Test matches around August 15
India have played five international matches around the Independence Day in the sport's history - all Tests. It is worth noting that England have been their opponents in three of those matches. India have claimed only two victories on this occasion as of now, the first of which came in 2021 under the leadership of Virat Kohli.
India's first match on August 15 post independence
India's first-ever international appearance on August 15 post independence was during the 1952 England tour. The match, the first of the five-Test series, started on 14 August at The Oval. Batting first, the hosts racked up 326/6d in 154 overs, with David Sheppard scoring a century. India's Vinoo Mankad took two wickets. India later bundled out for 98 before the match was washed out.
India's first victory on August 15 post independence
As mentioned, India first victory on the Independence Day came in 2021. The Kohli-led Team India beat hosts England in a historic Test at Lord's, the Home of Cricket. KL Rahul's incredible first-innings ton (129) laid the foundation for India's win. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj finished with eight wickets. England were bowled out for a mere 120 while chasing 272.
Three defeats for Team India
Besides, India have lost three Tests during the Independence Day period. England handed them a heavy innings defeat in 2014, while Sri Lanka defeated them in 2001 and 2015.
