History of 27th July – Abbas Ali Baig
This episode delves into the history of 27th July, spanning battles, public health measures, and sporting achievements. From the 1st Battle of Bouvines to the emergence of quarantine in Rugusa and the remarkable cricketing feat of Abbas Ali Baig, explore how these events shaped the world we live in today.
The history of 27th July includes various events which shaped the world as we know it today. Say for instance the 1st battle of Bouvines where King Philip II of France fought the Holy Roman Emperor Otto IV and King John of England in the year 1214. This battle resulted in John losing Normandy and his other possessions in France (hence his nickname John “Lackland”)
Moving on with the history of 27th July we come to the year 1377 where we see the first example of quarantine in Rugusa (now Dubroknik) when the city council passes a law saying newcomers from plague areas must isolation for 30 days (later 40 days, Quaranta in Italian)
More from the history of 27th July. It was this day in the year 1549 when the 1st Christian missionary arrived in Japan. He was a Jesuit priest named Francis Xavier who reached Japan on this day but was not permitted to enter any port until 15 August. Moreover, it was this day in the year 1586 when Walter Raleigh brought the 1st tobacco to England from Virginia.
With this, I come the feature story from the history of 27th July.
Abbas Ali Baig- first Indian player to score an overseas hundred
On this day, 27th July 1959, Abbas Ali Baig etched his name in Indian cricket history by becoming the first Indian player to score an overseas hundred on his debut Test match. The remarkable achievement took place during a Test match against England at Old Trafford in Manchester.
At the young age of 20 years and 126 days, Abbas Ali Baig displayed incredible composure and skill to amass an impressive total of 112 runs against the formidable English bowling attack. His innings not only showcased his talent but also demonstrated the potential of Indian cricket on the international stage.
Baig’s century was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked a groundbreaking moment for Indian cricket, proving that the team’s young talents could excel on foreign soil. Secondly, Baig’s debut century helped India compete competitively in the Test match, a testament to his ability to handle pressure on the biggest stage of cricket.
Furthermore, Abbas Ali Baig’s hundred on debut overseas remains a record to this day, making him the youngest Indian batsman to achieve this feat. His extraordinary innings inspired many young cricketers in India and became a source of pride for the entire nation.
It is worth noting that between 1952 and 1980, a period of almost three decades, a total of six Indian players scored a Test century on their debut. This showcases the emergence of several talented individuals during that era and their significant contributions to Indian cricket’s growth.
Abbas Ali Baig’s feat on this day in 1959 will forever be remembered as a historic moment in Indian cricket history. His achievement not only bolstered the confidence of the Indian team but also laid the foundation for future generations of cricketing talent from the country. Baig’s name will always be cherished in the annals of Indian cricket as a trailblazer who paved the way for many young cricketers to dream big and aim for greatness on the international stage.
What's Your Reaction?
