India’s first-ever test victory is a significant milestone in the history of Indian cricket. It took place on June 25, 1952, during India’s tour of England. The venue was the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.
The match was the first of a five-match test series between England and India. Led by the legendary captain Vijay Hazare, the Indian team comprised talented players like Vinoo Mankad, Polly Umrigar, and Vijay Manjrekar. The English team, captained by Nigel Howard, was a formidable opponent on their home ground.
India won the toss and elected to bat first. They put up a respectable total of 235 runs in their first innings, with Pankaj Roy top-scoring with 30 runs. In reply, England scored 537 runs, declaring their innings. India faced an uphill battle, trailing by a significant margin.
In their second innings, India showed resilience and determination. Polly Umrigar played a remarkable innings, scoring 130 runs and receiving support from Vinoo Mankad, who contributed 72 runs. India managed to score 378 runs, setting England a target of 82 runs to win.
With a small target to chase, the Indian bowlers stepped up and delivered a stunning performance. Vinoo Mankad, who had already made a significant contribution with the bat, shone with the ball as well. He took 5 wickets for 196 runs, dismantling the English batting line-up. England was bowled out for 181 runs, and India clinched their first-ever test victory by 7 wickets.
The victory at Lord’s was a historic moment for Indian cricket. It marked the beginning of a new era and instilled confidence in the Indian team. The win against a strong English side on their home ground showcased India’s potential and laid the foundation for future successes in test cricket.
India’s first test victory was a watershed moment in Indian cricket history, and it paved the way for the country’s emergence as a powerhouse in the cricketing world. It remains an iconic achievement that is celebrated by cricket fans and players alike, representing the indomitable spirit and passion for the game in India.