5 batsmen who scored century against India on Test debut
A century on Test debut is not only special but historical for a batsman especially when it is scored against a strong opposition. Over the years, many players have been successful against India and have gone on to make majestic records in Test cricket.
They played some outstanding cricket but also made use of the golden opportunity to make a mark for themselves in international cricket. Here are 5 of those batsmen who scored a century on their test debut against India:
#1 James Neesham – 137*
New Zealand were on fire when India toured them in 2014 for a two-match Test series. They won the first match comfortably by 40 runs, courtesy centuries from Kane Williamson and Brendon Mccullum. India went to the second match hoping to turn the tables around and level the series.
India started off well by putting 438 in the first innings and then getting New Zealand out cheaply on 192 with their superb pace bowling. However, New Zealand played some brilliant cricket in the second innings and put up a big score of 680/8 after declaring in the second innings. Neesham, who was playing his debut match, came out to bat at No. 8 and scored a 137 not out from 154 balls at a strike rate of 88.96.
He showed early resistance in fighting the reverse swing and played shots all round the ground. He beautifully constructed his innings and hammered the Indian bowlers to reach his first century in style. Not only he was cautious in his approach, he also played some aggressive cricket to help his team extend the lead and diminishing India’s chances of levelling the series.