On this day in 1999, in Eden Gardens, Calcutta, a riot erupted over Sachin Tendulkar’s run-out during the India vs Pakistan Asian Test Championship match This incident was just one of several disturbances during the match. As Pakistan neared victory on the final day, authorities faced a daunting task: clearing the entire stadium of spectators,
Initially slated as the series finale, the Calcutta Test in February was transformed into the inaugural match of the Asian Championship upon its acceptance. Despite the change, the event garnered immense public support, drawing nearly 100,000 spectators over the first four days and 65,000 on the fifth, surpassing a 63-year attendance record for Test cricket.
However, the game was overshadowed by crowd disturbances, resulting in a subdued atmosphere and an eventual expulsion of spectators due to a riot.
Sachin Tendulkar’s dismissal results in a riot:
During the first three days, no incidents occurred, and initially, India seemed poised for victory as Pakistan stumbled to 26 for 6. However, led by Moin Khan’s 70, Pakistan recovered to 185, limiting India to a narrow first-innings lead. Howeverm discontent grew among the crowd when Sachin Tendulkar was bowled by Shoaib Akhtar for a first-ball duck.
Tendulkar, cheered by the crowd, scored 7 runs before colliding with Shoaib Akhtar during a run. Despite completing 5000 Test runs, a direct hit from substitute Nadeem Khan led to his dismissal. Umpire Steve Bucknor referred it to the third umpire, who ultimately ruled him out. The incident sparked debate over fault allocation.
In the second innings, superb bowling from Javagal Srinath, who took 8 for 86 and 13 for 132 in the match, was matched by a brilliant innings from Saeed Anwar, scoring 188 not out. Pakistan set India a target of 279, and by the fourth afternoon, India were well-placed at 143 for 2 when an incident occurred, turning the game sour. Despite the subsequent delay and protests, the match resumed, with Pakistan ultimately clinching victory.
The crowd’s disappointment escalated, leading to disruptions and clashes with authorities. Although Pakistan secured a 46-run win, the chaotic scenes marred the match’s conclusion. Criticisms were leveled at both the police tactics and media coverage, exacerbating tensions.
Despite the unfortunate turn of events, the Calcutta Test showcased the essence of Test cricket, albeit tarnished by unruly behavior. Subsequent matches in the championship failed to replicate the intensity, culminating in a one-sided final. Despite the turmoil, cricket emerged as the ultimate victor, echoing Jagmohan Dalmiya’s sentiments amidst the aftermath.
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