Test match cricket is always described as slow and boring game. But test cricket always provide some unforgettable matches in history, that even T20 fans like to watch. These matches were dramatic, high pressure and last wicket thrillers. Test cricket will always be the favourite format of true cricket fans because test cricket is about control on nerves and patience game. There are some memorable test matches described below.
Thrilling Matches in Test Cricket
1. India vs Australia at Kolkata 2001
This match is often called as the "Miracle of Kolkata". After being forced to follow on by Australia, India was looking uncomfortable. The hope of Indian fans were nothing, but there comes the greatest partnership of test cricket ever, which changed the context of match.
The two legendry batters of cricket VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid made an epic partnership of 376 runs, which was game changing, and these two batsmen batted till the fourth day. VVS Laxman made 281 runs while Rahul Dravid posted 180 runs knock. Because of this historic partnership between the greatest batsmen ever, India set a target of 384 and bowled out Australia on 212 runs and won the match by 171 runs. This victory was unbelievable, which shocked every cricket fan and forced fans to love test cricket.
2. England vs Australia at Headingly 2019
Perhaps, one of the greatest chase in test cricket was England's chase against Australia at Headingly 2019. In third Ashes test, England was chasing 359 runs to win with only one wicket in hand. Australia was favorites because the conditions were favourable for bowling. But there comes the Ben Stokes's greatest knock of test cricket.
Stoke's mindset was different and he, along with Jack Leach, perfectly managed to chase the target. It was a dramatic and last wicket thriller, which every cricket fan must watched it with goosebumps. Stokes made the greatest 135 not out runs, with Jack Leach made only one historic run. Stoke's masterclass along with Jack Leach's determination, lead England to a historic win over Australia. The crowd emotions were at high level and it was a delightful scene at the stadium.
3. South Africa vs Australia at Cape Town 2011
In 2011 at Cape Town, the match between Australia and South Africa was one of the greatest matches in test cricket. After Australia was bowled out for 284 runs, South Africa made only 96 runs. The Proteas fans were very disappointed and there were no hopes for South Africa to win the match. But then comes the shocking and unexpected collapse by Australian batsmen. Australia was bowled out for only 47 runs in their second innings.
After the shocking collapse, South Africa needed 236 runs to win. Graeme Smith's brilliant knock and Hasim Amla's fine runs lead South Africa to a victory. This match was not less than a rollercoaster, it also shows the unpredictability of test cricket which makes it interesting.
4. Pakistan vs India at Chennai 1999
The first test between India and Pakistan in 1999 at Chennai was very tense and emotional. While chasing 271 runs, India was looking favorites because of Sachin Tendulkar's brilliant knock. But test cricket had always something special for fans.
After the end of brilliant knock by Sachin Tendulkar, India's lower order started to collapse. Pakistani Bowlers bowled perfectly to finish the tail and eventually Pakistan won by 12 runs. The Chennai crowd was delight to watch Pakistan's performance and gave a standing applause, which was a great sight of sportsmanship between two historical rivals. This match is still described as one of the best in test cricket.
Iconic Moments
5. New Zealand vs England at Wellington 2023
New Zealand was forced to follow on by England. But New Zealand fought hard in the second inning because of Kane Williamson's and Tom Blundell's brilliant knocks.
New Zealand set the target of 258. England struggled to chase as Neil Wagner bowled brilliantly and took crucial wickets. New Zealand won that match by 1 run. This match is a perfect example of unpredictability of test cricket.
Why We Love Test Cricket
All these matches remind us the beauty of test cricket. Test cricket is unpredictable game, which makes it special. It's unpredictability cause heartbreaks but on the other hand it keeps a match interesting at every stage. That's why test cricket is always delightful to watch.