On August 10, 2007, Team India legend Anil Kumble racked up his maiden and only Test century of his international career at The Oval. Batting first after winning the toss, India skipper Rahul Dravid elected
to bat first. Dinesh Karthik displayed his batting excellence and notched up 91 from his bat. Rahul Dravid also scored 55 while Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman also smashed fifties. For the seventh wicket, MS Dhoni and Anil Kumble built a 91-run stand and solidified India’s position in the game.
After Dhoni’s departure at his score of 92, Kumble took the matter into his own hands and played a phenomenal knock. He played a 110-run knock and helped the visitors post a massive total of 664 on the board. India lost their 10 wickets but Kumble remained unbeaten until the end. His courageous batting effort included 16 fours and a maximum. For the last wicket, Kumble and S Sreesanth stitched a 73-run partnership. The veteran’s batting emboldened Sreesanth, who chipped in with his swift 35 runs off 32 balls.
Anil Kumble delivered a bowling show for India following the incredible batting performance
After the superb batting performance, Anil Kumble stood tall with the ball as well. In the first innings, England were bundled out on 345 and Kumble took three wickets in 29.1 overs. After batting in the second innings, India delivered a target of 500 runs to the home side.
The hosts succeeded in securing a draw as Kevin Pietersen and Ian Bell produced the match-saving knocks from their bats. Pietersen racked up his 10th red-ball ton and in the series, it was his second. Ian Bell hit a rapid 67 off 62. Englandended their second innings on 369/6. Kumble’s magnificent all-round show made him the Player of the Match (POTM).
