20th June is the holder of a special place in the history of the Indian cricket and refers to the test debuts of three players who would become giants of the game – Souvrav Gangules, Rahul Dravid and Virt Kohli. Although they started in different years and in different circumstances, each of them left a lasting impact on the Indian cricket.
In 1996, India was touring in England and arrived at Lord’s for the second test of the series. With a team undergoing changes, gangules and predators, they got their test caps. What followed has happened a matter of legend. Ganguly, batting on no. His cover drive and confidence under pressure immediately excelled.
On the other hand, the predator, which came to 7, compiled a solid 95 before it fell only shortly after the debut century. While Ganguly’s shifts were more devastated, the bird of knock was marked by gravel and classical technology – the properties that would define his career. This test meant the beginning of two excellent ways, and both players became the backbone of the Indian middle order for the coming years.
Fifteen years later, at the same date in 2011, young Virt Kohli debuted against West India in Sabina Park in Kingston. Fresh from the Indian World Cup of triumphs At the beginning of that year, expectations were high. Kohli, however, tolerated a difficult start and scored 4 and 15 in his two shifts. The call of the red ball cricket proved to be a steep learning curve.
Despite this modest beginning, Kohli would quickly adapt to the format requirements. He continued and became one of the most prolific test bats in India and a successful captain who led the party to an unforgettable victory at home and abroad.
20. June can be just another date on the calendar, but for the Indian cricket, it refers to the beginning of three remarkable test careers. Gangules, David and Kohli – each in their own way – transformed the team and inspired the new generation. Their debuts could be separated for years, but their references remain firmly connected to the structure of the Indian cricket.
Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
June 20, 2025
