Cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties, where fortunes can change in a matter of minutes. But sometimes, the game also witnesses moments that are not so glorious, moments that are tragic, shocking, and shameful. Moments that are remembered as the black days of cricket.
In this short read, we will revisit four such dark moments in cricket history, when the game was overshadowed by violence, cheating or misfortune. We will also explore how these events affected the cricketing world and its fans.
Sandpaper Gate Incident
On March 24, 2018, Australian cricket was rocked by one of the biggest scandals in its history. During the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town, cameras caught Australian opener Cameron Bancroft tampering with the ball using a piece of sandpaper. Later, it was revealed that he was acting under the instructions of captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner, who were also involved in the plot.
While Smith and Warner were captain and vice-captain, respectively, it’s important to avoid implying they solely masterminded the plan. Investigations indicated wider team knowledge and potential involvement, though their leadership roles led to harsher punishments.
The incident sparked outrage and condemnation from the cricketing community and the public. The trio was banned by Cricket Australia for varying periods, ranging from 9 months to 1 year. Bancroft received 9 months, Smith 12 months, and Warner a year.
They also faced severe backlash from the media and sponsors. The incident tarnished the reputation of Australian cricket and led to a cultural review of its team culture and values.
Lahore Terrorist Attack
On March 3, 2009, Sri Lanka’s cricketers were on their way to play the third day of the second Test against Pakistan in Lahore. As their team bus approached the Gaddafi Stadium, it was ambushed by a group of armed terrorists, who opened fire and threw grenades at it.
The attack lasted for about 15 minutes and left six security personnel and two civilians dead. Several Sri Lankan players and staff were injured, including captain Mahela Jayawardene, Kumar Sangakkara, Thilan Samaraweera, Ajantha Mendis and Tharanga Paranavitana.
The attack was a shocking and cowardly act of terrorism that targeted innocent sportsmen. It also had a devastating impact on Pakistan’s cricketing future, as it lost its status as an international venue for almost a decade.
No major team visited Pakistan until 2015, when Zimbabwe toured for a limited-overs series. Since then, Pakistan has gradually regained some confidence from other teams, but it still faces challenges in hosting regular international matches.
While six security personnel and two civilians were killed, no Sri Lankan players were fatally injured. Six players sustained injuries. Pakistan did lose its status as a major cricketing venue.
After the attack, most international tours were canceled for three years until 2012 when Sri Lanka resumed their Test series against Pakistan. But major teams like Australia, England and India remained hesitant to tour until well after 2015.
And while Pakistan has regained some confidence from teams, the challenges for hosting regular international matches are complex and go beyond the 2009 attack. Security concerns, political instability and logistical challenges continue to play a role.
Black Day ODI
The Black Day ODI is a cricket match that was launched by Cricket South Africa (CSA) in 2021 to fight against gender-based violence in South Africa. It is played between the South Africa and Pakistan women’s teams, wearing black kits, to show solidarity and support for the cause. The first Black Day ODI was held on January 23, 2021, at the Kingsmead Cricket Stadium in Durban.
The initiative was inspired by the Pink Day T20 Challenge match, which is an annual event that raises awareness and funds for breast cancer. CSA said that the Black Day ODI aims to “raise awareness of the ongoing scourge of violence against women and girls perpetrated by men in our society” and to “honour the victims and survivors of gender-based violence” .
The Black Day ODI was widely praised by fans, players and officials for its social impact and cricketing quality. CSA acting CEO Pholetsi Moseki said that the event was “a resounding success” and that it “sent out a powerful message that our Proteas women are not only leaders on the field of play but off it as well” .
Pakistan captain Javeria Khan said that she was “proud to be part of such a noble cause” and that she hoped that “this initiative will inspire many girls and women to come forward and speak up against any form of violence” .
The Black Day ODI is set to become an annual fixture in the women’s cricket calendar, as CSA plans to host it every year with different opponents. CSA director of cricket Graeme Smith said that the event was “a wonderful way of creating much-needed awareness around this important issue” and that he looked forward to “seeing our ladies in black for many years to come” .
West Indies World Cup Defeat
On March 23, 1983, West Indies and India faced each other in the final of the third World Cup at Lord’s. West Indies were the defending champions and had won both the previous editions in 1975 and 1979. They were also considered as the best team in the world, with a formidable batting line-up and a fearsome pace attack.
India, on the other hand, were rank outsiders and had reached the final by upsetting some strong teams like Australia and England.
The match turned out to be one of the biggest upsets in cricket history. India batted first and scored a modest 183 all out in 54.4 overs. West Indies seemed to be cruising towards victory at 50 for 1 in 10 overs.
But they lost their way against some disciplined bowling by India’s medium-pacers and spinners. They were eventually bowled out for 140 in 52 overs, giving India a stunning 43-run win. It was a historic moment for Indian cricket, as they lifted their first World Cup trophy.
Though they reached the finals in 1996 and 2007 and continued to be a dominant force in cricket for years after what happened, that day was also a black day for the West Indies cricket team as they lost their dominance and it was a significant turning point for them.
West Indies remain one of the most successful teams in cricket history, winning numerous other accolades like the 1987 and 2004 World Cups and multiple Champions Trophy titles.
Black Day ODI 2023: Raising Awareness Beyond Boundaries
Cricket South Africa’s Black Day ODI initiative, dedicated to combating gender-based violence, returned for its third edition on October 1, 2023, in Durban. This time, the Proteas Women faced New Zealand’s White Ferns, both teams clad in black, symbolizing solidarity and support for the cause.
Following the success of the inaugural matches in 2021, the 2023 Black Day ODI aimed to further amplify the message against gender-based violence. Beyond the cricket field, it served as a powerful platform to raise awareness, challenge societal norms, and inspire positive change.
This year’s Black Day ODI resonated beyond South Africa’s borders. International media coverage extended the message of awareness to a global audience, emphasizing the universality of the struggle against gender-based violence. Social media campaigns encouraged global participation, with fans sharing messages of support and solidarity using the hashtag #BlackDayODI.
The Black Day ODI serves as a powerful reminder that cricket can be a force for good, fostering social change and advocating for important causes. While the match has concluded, the fight against gender-based violence continues. The event is a call to action, urging individuals and communities to actively participate in creating a safer and more just world for all.
Phillip Hughes: A Rising Star Cut Short
Phillip Hughes was a talented Australian batsman who had a bright future ahead of him. He had played four Tests and 25 ODIs for Australia, scoring three centuries and nine fifties. He was also the youngest player to score two centuries in a single Test match, at the age of 20.
On November 27, 2014, Hughes was batting for South Australia against New South Wales in a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. He was on 63 not out when he faced a bouncer from Sean Abbott, a fast bowler and his friend.
The ball struck him on the neck, just below the helmet. Hughes collapsed on the pitch and was rushed to the hospital. He suffered a vertebral artery dissection that led to a subarachnoid hemorrhage and never regained consciousness12. He died two days later, three days before his 26th birthday.
Hughes’ death shocked and saddened the cricket world. Tributes poured in from players, fans and celebrities. A global campaign called #PutOutYourBats was launched, where people placed their cricket bats outside their homes or offices as a sign of respect.
Hughes’ funeral was attended by thousands of people, including his teammates, family, friends, and dignitaries. His jersey number 64 was retired by Cricket Australia. A plaque was unveiled at the SCG to commemorate his final innings. A book titled Phillip Hughes: The Official Biography was published in 2015.
Hughes was a hardworking and cheerful cricketer who loved the game and his family. He left behind a legacy of courage, passion and skill that will inspire generations to come.
Raman Lamba: A Prolific Run-Scorer Gone Too Soon
Raman Lamba was an Indian batsman who had a successful domestic and international career. He had played four Tests and 32 ODIs for India, scoring one century and four fifties. He was also a prolific run-scorer in first-class cricket, with over 8,000 runs and 31 centuries. He had also represented Ireland and Abahani in club cricket.
On February 20, 1998, Lamba was fielding for Abahani against Mohammedan Sporting Club in a club match in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He was standing at forward short leg, a close-in position, without a helmet.
He was hit on the temple by a powerful pull shot from Mehrab Hossain, a young batsman. Lamba did not react immediately, but collapsed after a few minutes. He was taken to the hospital, where he slipped into a coma and succumbed to an internal hemorrhage . He died three days later, at the age of 38.
Lamba’s death stunned and saddened the cricket world. Condolences came from players, fans and officials. A trust fund was set up by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to support his wife and two children. A memorial match was played between India and Bangladesh in 1998, where Lamba’s son scored a fifty. A book titled Raman Lamba: A Biography was published in 1999.
Lamba was a fearless, aggressive and stylish cricketer who had a hunger for runs and a flair for entertainment. He left behind a legacy of determination, excellence & charisma that will be remembered by many.
Conclusion
The Black Days of Cricket continues to spark conversations and debates about the future of cricket. How can we ensure the integrity of the game? How can we prevent such scandals from happening again? These are questions that cricket administrators, players & fans alike must grapple with.
Cricket is a beautiful game but it can also be a dangerous one. As cricket fans, we have a responsibility to uphold the spirit of the game. We must celebrate its beauty, its sportsmanship and its ability to unite people across borders. The deaths of Phillip Hughes and Raman Lamba remind us of the risks and challenges that cricketers face every time they step on the field.
They also remind us of the fragility and preciousness of life. As we pay tribute to these fallen heroes, let us also celebrate their achievements and contributions to the game.
