Last Updated:
The first match of the Benson & Hedges World Series turned out to be an action-packed one as both India and West Indies ended at 126 in the thrilling low-scoring affair.
For West Indies, Curtly Ambrose (left), Malcolm Marshall (right) and Anderson Cummins picked up two wickets each against India. (Image: ICC/X, formerly Twitter)
On this day (December 6) in 1991, one of the most thrilling ODI matches was played between India and West Indies in Perth. The first match of the Benson & Hedges World Series turned out to be an action-packed one as both sides ended at 126 in a thrilling, low-scoring affair.
Winning the toss, the then West Indies skipper Richie Richardson decided to ball first and the strategy paid off.
Facing a formidable West Indies bowling line-up, India could manage to reach a paltry total of 126. India’s innings came to an end in 47.4 overs.
Ravi Shastri emerged as India’s highest scorer (33 off 110 balls) in the game against West Indies. India’s total of 126 comprised two boundaries, both hit by Shastri.
Apart from Ravi Shastri, Pravin Amre came up with a vital knock of 20 off 50 deliveries.
For West Indies, Curtly Ambrose, Malcolm Marshall and Anderson Cummins picked up two wickets each against India. Patrick Patterson claimed the wicket of Krishnamachari Srikkanth.
ALSO READ: On This Day In 2009: Virender Sehwag Scored A Blistering 293 In Mumbai Test Against Sri Lanka
West Indies did not have a fruitful start to their run chase having lost both their opening batters – Desmond Haynes and Philo Wallace – with 23 runs on the board. While Haynes returned to the dressing room without scoring a run, Wallace managed to add 11 runs facing 33 balls.
Half of the West Indies batting order was dismissed with 55 runs on the board. There was one point in the game when the Caribbean side needed 51 runs to win with two wickets in hand. Anderson Cummins and Curtly Ambrose did offer a fightback late in the innings but it was not enough to guide the West Indies to a victory.
ALSO READ: On This Day In 2021: Ajaz Patel Makes History With 10 Wickets In An Innings
While Curtly Ambrose was run out for 17 off 25 balls, Anderson Cummins was dismissed for 24. They were 14 runs away from a win when Ambrose was run out. West Indies, eventually, ended their innings at 126 with Patrick Patterson remaining unbeaten on eight off 12 balls.
For India, Subroto Banerjee bagged three wickets, while Kapil Dev and Javagal Srinath earned two scalps each.
Curtly Ambrose was adjudged Player of the Match for his crucial contribution with both bat and ball.
