The Indian Mixed Disability team easily defeated England by 118 runs at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on Wednesday. And it set off amazing scenes at the Lord’s balcony, evoking memories of legendary India captain Sourav Ganguly’s famous celebrations when his team achieved an incredible chase of 326 against England at the same venue in the 2002 NatWest Trophy final. Ganguly stripped off his shirt and waved. Following in Ganguly’s footsteps, two members of the touring Indian mixed disability cricket team contingent celebrated the victory by removing their shirts and blazers.
Thanks to half-centuries from captain Majid Magray (63* off 19) and Arjun Gawre (68 off 44), the Indian team dominated the T20 match, scoring a massive 206/4. Sai Akash, the opener, also had a crucial innings, scoring 48 off 38.
With Hilal Ahmad Wani taking 4/21 from four overs and Jayesh Parmar getting 3/14 from two overs to bundle out their hosts for 88 in 13.4 overs, the English team proved to be no match for the Indian bowlers.
With a score of 19 from 16, opener Jonny Gale led England, followed by his opening partner Angus Brown with a score of 16 off 11.
How Ganguly Felt About The Iconic Lord’s Celebration?
Dona, Ganguly’s wife, disclosed years later that the batting legend believed he should not have removed his shirt.
“I think it’s just wonderful because you always break the rule. It’s such a proper place and even Sourav said I shouldn’t have done that – it just came out. But I think it was a fantastic gesture. I enjoyed it! All the Bengalis do!” Dona had told Kolkata Knight Riders.
Given that an Indian defeat seemed inevitable when they fell to 146/5 in 24 overs while chasing 326, Ganguly’s outburst was emotional. Ganguly had given India a fantastic start before the collapse, smashing 60 off 43 in a 106-run opening combination with Virender Sehwag (45).
After that, Yuvraj Singh (69) and Mohammad Kaif (87*) brought hope back with a 121-run partnership for the sixth wicket, and India finished the thrilling chase with three deliveries remaining.