যার বিরুদ্ধে ভারত তার প্রথম ক্রিকেট ম্যাচ খেলেছে
India holds an illustrious chapter in the history of cricket, replete with memorable matches, extraordinary players and legendary victories. Cricket is not just a sport in India, it is almost akin to a religion followed passionately by many Indians living both within the country and abroad. It’s, therefore, intriguing to delve deep into the past to trace India’s first foray into International cricket.
Historical Beginnings
Formation of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
The journey began with the establishment of The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on 4th December 1928 at Delhi’s Roshnara Club. At this juncture though, Indian representative cricket was still confined to playing against English teams touring the country.
The Maiden International Test Match
It was nearly nine years later when India officially had its first tryst with international cricket representation. This happened on June 25, 1932, at Lord’s Cricket Ground – often referred to as ‘Home of Cricket’, located in London.
Against whom did India play its first match? It was against England under the captaincy of Douglas Jardine known for devising bodyline bowling – a controversial tactic that aimed at attacking the batsman instead of defending the wickets.
First Forays into Global Arena
Performance During First Test Series Against England
India put up quite an impressive show during their inaugural test outing despite losing by 158 runs with England scoring 259 & 275/8d; while team India falling short by managing only 189 & 187 across their two innings. What remained remarkable about this historic debut performance was that they held their fort till lunch on Day Three.
Two significant performances that stood out from the Indian side were: L Amar Singh who took 7 wickets across two innings and CK Nayudu whose sensational batting scored him a whopping 40 runs in 40 minutes.
Full Video in Youtube
Struggles of Early Years
India’s early years in international cricket were filled with stumbling blocks. It was not until their 25th match, on February 10, 1952 against England at Madras (now Chennai) that India won its maiden test match. However, these initial struggles formed the stepping stones for what was to come next – an era of world domination in cricket by the Indian team.
The Learning Curve
Over the years, cricket in India has seen many ups and downs. The game evolved from a gentle pastime into a fierce battleground for national pride and individual glory. From humble beginnings to global recognition; struggling teams to champions ruling roosts – the metamorphosis has been far-reaching yet deeply embedded in glorious traditions.
Indian cricketers have strutted down cricketing avenues as lone rangers and also emerged triumphant leading fiercely competitive sides. They’ve regaled spectators with scintillating performances within domestic precincts and garnered laurels on international turfs too.
Written tales recount countless successes weaved diligently over the years; some stories stand taller echoing louder applause while others humbly narrate sagas of determination exemplifying grit & resilience.
Today, owing to consistent efforts by BCCI coupled with a collective passion for the sport among citizens, India is heralded globally as a dominant force in international cricket.
Indeed, their so-called ‘first step’ taken way back in June 1932 against England paved the foundation towards building this legacy. Today whether it’s Tests or ODIs, T20s or IPL matches; rest assured there will be countless eyes passionately following every ball, every shot and cherishing each victory across the length and breadth of this cricket-crazy nation.
