On This Day 41 Years Ago: Azharuddin’s Historic First Three Test Centuries Vs England

On February 1, 1985, Mohammed Azharuddin created cricket history by becoming the first player in the world to score centuries in his first three Test matches. Representing India against England, the young right-hander from Hyderabad announced himself as a masterful batter with unmatched elegance and wristy precision.

Historic Debut Series

Azharuddin made his Test debut in the third Test of the five-match series against England. At his favourite venue, Eden Gardens, Kolkata, he scored a sensational century, showcasing his ability to dominate top-class bowling.

He continued his extraordinary form in the fourth Test in Chennai with another hundred and completed his historic hat-trick of centuries in the fifth Test in Kanpur, scoring 122 runs off 270 balls, including 16

boundaries. Batting at No. 3 under captain Sunil Gavaskar, Azharuddin’s innings lasted 375 minutes, helping India post a mammoth 553/8 in the first innings.

With this bat, I made a world record of three consecutive hundreds in my first three tests against England in 84-85.
In a season I scored more than 800 runs with this very bat, chosen by my grandfather. #FondMemories pic.twitter.com/ci8dkc5tzz

— Mohammed Azharuddin (@azharflicks) May 22, 2021

Despite his brilliance, the Test series ended 2-1 in favour of England, with the final match concluding in a draw. Yet, Azharuddin’s performances were a clear signal of the great career that awaited him.

Azharuddin’s Career Highlights

1. Tests: 99 matches, 22 centuries, 6,215 runs at an average of 45.03
2. ODIs: 334 matches, 7 centuries, 9,378 runs with 58 half-centuries
3. Captaincy: Led India in 47 Tests and 174 ODIs, regarded as one of India’s most successful leaders

Known for his elegant wrist work, timing, and ability to dominate bowlers on any pitch

Legacy in Indian Cricket

Azharuddin’s debut series remains one of the most remarkable feats in cricket history. His style and composure at the crease earned him the nickname of one of India’s most stylish batters, influencing generations of cricketers to follow.

Remembering the Historic Moment

On this day, cricket fans celebrate the brilliance of Mohammed Azharuddin and his unparalleled start to Test cricket. His achievement of scoring three consecutive centuries at the beginning of his career against England remains unmatched in Indian cricket history.