Goa is preparing to host international cricketing stars this January with the inaugural season of the Legends Pro T20 League set to take place in the state, known for its tourism allure and rich sporting tradition. It has been a while since global cricket legends last visited Goan soil, heightening the anticipation for the first edition of the Legends Pro T20 League.
Here’s a look at some of the most memorable events from Goa’s cricket history at Fatorda.
1. Zaheer Khan’s Devastating Spell (India vs. Sri Lanka, February 14, 2007)
The Valentine’s Day clash remains one of Fatorda’s most electrifying evenings. In the match, Captain Rahul Dravid handed the new ball to Zaheer Khan, who produced one of his most devastating spells. His fiery 5/42 tore
through Sri Lanka’s batting, including key players like Upul Tharanga and Kumar Sangakkara, restricting them to just 230/8. India found themselves at 94/4 in the middle, but MS Dhoni and Rahul Dravid formed a partnership of 133 runs, chasing the target in 46.3 overs with 5 wickets in hand. This match also sparked massive celebrations across Goa, marking the stadium’s most unforgettable modern international moment.
2. The Yuvraj Singh Show of Dominance (India vs. England, April 3, 2006)
India won the toss and elected to bat first. Coming to bat at No.4, Yuvraj Singh took charge with a breathtaking counterattacking century, 103 runs off just 76 balls. He smashed boundaries at will, dismantling England’s bowling attack along with a 142-run partnership with Suresh Raina, who scored 61*(68), setting India a target of 295. In response, England fell short by 49 runs due to Irfan Pathan’s 4-wicket haul and the Harbhajan-Agarkar duo taking 2 wickets each. This match showcased not only a batting masterclass by Yuvraj but also a bowling masterclass by Irfan, etching in Fatorda’s cricketing history as one of the finest performances by the Indian team in Goa.
3. Goa Officially Enters the World Cricket Map (Australia vs. Sri Lanka, October 25, 1989)
Goa’s introduction to international cricket came in 1989 during the prestigious Nehru Cup. The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium hosted its first-ever international match as Australia, led by legends Allan Border and Dean Jones, faced Sri Lanka. Aussies posted a total score of 222/7 with Dean Jones top scoring with a 101-ball 85. The game was competitive, with Australia ultimately winning by 28 runs. More importantly, it marked the moment Goa officially entered the world cricket map, igniting excitement across the state and laying the foundation for future global fixtures at Fatorda.
4. V.V.S. Laxman’s Elegant Maiden Indian Century (India vs. Australia, April 6, 2001)
This high-scoring contest produced one of V.V.S. Laxman’s most elegant innings. Laxman looked in sublime touch as he stroked his way to 101 off 107 balls — his first international century on Indian soil. Chasing the target of 266, Adam Gilchrist provided a blistering start in the powerplay, scoring 76(60) with Michael Bevan driving the Aussies over the finishing line with his 113-ball 87. Despite Australia winning the match by 4 wickets, Laxman’s knock remained the enduring highlight, celebrated for its timing, elegance, and composure against an elite bowling attack.
5. Matthew Hart’s Record-Setting Bowling Figures (New Zealand vs. West Indies, October 26, 1994)
Rain may have prevented a result, but this match still produced one of Fatorda’s most remarkable performances. The Kiwi spinner Matthew Hart delivered an extraordinary spell of 5/22 in 10 overs against a formidable West Indies lineup featuring Brian Lara and Carl Hooper. His precision and control under overcast conditions created history, leaving behind one of the finest bowling figures ever recorded at the venue, a performance still spoken about with admiration.
Goa has witnessed glory, runs, and wickets in its cricketing history. This Republic Day, the state and its visitors will have a golden opportunity to see 90 Legends of the Game showcase their skills and demonstrate why they are considered legends.
