The second Test between India and Australia, held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai from September 18 to 22, 1986, remains etched in cricket history as one of the most thrilling and unforgettable encounters. This match marked only the second time a Test ended in a tie, the first being in 1960 between Australia and the West Indies in Brisbane.
Australia, led by Allan Border, batted first and amassed a formidable 574 for 7 declared. Dean Jones played a heroic innings, scoring 210 off 330 balls despite suffering from severe dehydration and heat exhaustion. His knock, regarded as one of the finest under such grueling conditions, was supported by centuries from David Boon (122) and Border himself (106).
In response, India showed resilience, with Kapil Dev leading the charge with a brilliant 119. Contributions from Kris Srikkanth (53), Mohammad Azharuddin (50), and Ravi Shastri (62) helped India reach 397, but they still conceded a substantial 177-run lead.
Australia, looking to set a challenging target, declared their second innings at 170 for 5, leaving India to chase 348. The final day's play turned into an unforgettable drama. Sunil Gavaskar (90), Mohinder Amarnath (51), and other Indian batsmen kept the chase alive, but it was Ravi Shastri who stood firm as wickets tumbled around him.
Shastri didn't get support from the other end and remained unbeaten on 48 off 40 balls, including three fours and two sixes. With India needing just four runs and only one wicket remaining, Maninder Singh joined Shastri at the crease. In a nail-biting finish, off-spinner Greg Matthews, who bowled tirelessly in the oppressive heat, trapped Maninder LBW with the scores level, ending the match in a historic tie.
Both Kapil Dev and Dean Jones were named Players of the Match for their outstanding performances. The Chennai Test of 1986 remains a testament to the unpredictable nature of cricket and the enduring spirit of the players involved.
Tags: #Cricket, #TestMatch, #India, #Australia, #DeanJones
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