Cricket News and Milestones

This week's cricket news brings a mix of record-breaking chases, intriguing Test statistics, and the emergence of a promising new talent. Let's dive into the details.

Fastest Chase of 200+ in T20Is

Pakistan recently overhauled New Zealand's total in just 16 overs, prompting a question about whether this was the fastest chase of a target of 200-plus in a T20 International. While Pakistan's chase was impressive, it wasn't the fastest. Here's a breakdown:

• Pakistan vs. New Zealand (Auckland, Last Week): 207/1 in 16 overs (rate of 12.93 per over).
• South Africa vs. West Indies (Centurion, 2023): 259/4 (rate of 13.75 per over).
• Australia vs. New Zealand (Auckland, 2018): 243 (rate of 13.00 per over).

Test Cricket's 'Devil's Numbers'

A curious question arose regarding Australia's infamous 'devil's number' in Test cricket. While many associate it with 87, the correct answer is 111.

• Australia Bowled Out for 111: This unfortunate milestone has occurred seven times, each resulting in a loss.
  • Notable instances include the Headingley Test in 1981 and the 1954-55 Ashes series.
• Australia Bowled Out for 87: This has happened 15 times.

Agni Chopra's First-Class Record

Agni Chopra, representing Mizoram, achieved a remarkable feat in 2023: he became the first man to score centuries in each of his first four first-class matches.

• Chopra's Scoring Record:
  1. 166 vs. Sikkim
  2. 164 vs. Nagaland
  3. 114 vs. Arunachal Pradesh
  4. 105 & 101 vs. Meghalaya
• Current Average: Chopra boasts an impressive first-class batting average of 94.94 with a strike rate of 95.

The Only Test Player Born in China

Identifying Test cricketers by their birthplace often reveals surprising facts. The answer to who the only Test player born in China is Molly Hide.

• Molly Hide (Born 1911, Shanghai): Played 15 Tests for England.
  • Notable achievement: Captained England and scored a century in a Test match.
• No male Test cricketers have been born in China or Japan.

International Cricket in Mackay, Australia

Klynton Marshall inquired about the possibility of international cricket in Mackay, Queensland. It appears likely that Mackay will host two one-day internationals against South Africa in August.

• Venue History:
  • Previously hosted one rain-affected match during the 1992 World Cup.
  • Has hosted three women's ODIs and two T20Is.