Anil Kumble’s 10/74 vs Pakistan cricket team still stands tall after 18 years

Anil Kumble is unmatchable when it comes to bowlers from India. With 619 Test wickets and 334 ODI wickets, the former Indian cricket team captain has the highest number of scalps, in both formats, among his compatriots.

However, in such an illustrious career, one achievement that seats as the crown jewel is Kumble’s 10/74 against Pakistan at Feroze Shah Kotla. On February 7, 1999, Kumble became only the second bowler after England’s Jim Laker to pick all the 10 wickets in an innings. No third bowler has been able to repeat the feat – in the last 18 years.

In the two-Test series in 1999 against Pakistan, India had lost the first match to their arch-rivals. The second Test in Delhi thus turned into a must-win game for the hosts.

Batting first India scored 252 before bowling out Pakistan for 172 in the first innings. The hosts piled on the visitors’ misery by scoring 339 in the second innings.

After being set a target of 420, Pakistan was under pressure. However, they just needed a draw to clinch the series. They were also well-placed at 101/0 and then, started the carnage by Kumble, post lunch.

Kumble took 20.3 overs to scalp the 10 wickets and guide India to 212-run victory as Pakistan was out for 207 runs. It was also India’s first win over Pakistan since 1979-80.

Kumble retired in 2008 but continues to be a path-breaker in Indian cricket. He is currently the coach of Indian team and oversaw its rise No. 1 ranking in Tests.