Cricketers Born on December 9

Abdur RaufPK
Abdur Rauf

47y / 1978

Bowler

Kim PriceZA
Kim Price

63y / 1962

Batsman

Joe PartridgeZA
Joe Partridge

93y / 1932

All-rounder

Rumeli DharIN
Rumeli Dhar

42y / 1983

Batsman

John SharpeENG
John Sharpe

159y / 1866

All-rounder

Colin McCoolAU
Colin McCool

109y / 1916

Batsman

Player Info

1936 – Australia's Lowest Total on Home Soil

At a rain-soaked Gabba, Australia was skittled for just 58 in the first Test against England. Gubby Allen and Bill Voce ran through the Australian lineup, claiming 18 of the 19 wickets that fell. It was also Don Bradman’s first Test as captain. Despite this disastrous start, Australia staged one of its greatest comebacks, recovering from 0–2 down to win the series 3–2 — a feat still unique in Test history.

1992 – Kapil Dev Sparks Controversy in Port Elizabeth

During a tense match in Port Elizabeth, Kapil Dev ran out Peter Kirsten for backing up too far, despite having warned him earlier. Kirsten was fined half his match fee, while his captain, Kepler Wessels, got away with an unkind gesture toward Kapil. South Africa went on to win comfortably by six wickets, leaving India frustrated.

1993 – Australian Debuts at the MCG

Michael Slater and Glenn McGrath made their one-day debuts against South Africa at the MCG. Slater impressed with a 73 off 69 balls, while McGrath bowled economically but was dismissed for a golden duck. Despite their personal performances, Australia lost the match convincingly.

1997 – Lance Klusener Shines

In a Carlton & United day-night game at the MCG, Lance Klusener ran through Australia with 5 for 24, helping South Africa defend a modest total of 170 with 45 runs to spare. While South Africa dominated this group match, Australia eventually won the best-of-three final series 2–1.

1979 – Viv Richards’ Masterclass

West Indies crushed Australia by 80 runs at the MCG, led by Viv Richards’ unbeaten 153 off 130 balls. Richards added a record 205-run partnership with Des Haynes, setting a new benchmark for any wicket at the time.

1916 – Birth of Colin McCool

Colin McCool, born this day, became an attacking middle-order batsman and leg-spinner with a round-arm action. In 14 Tests, he scored 35 runs and took 26 wickets without experiencing defeat. He also represented Somerset between 1956 and 1960, passing away in Sydney in 1986.

1992 – Murali’s Early Brilliance

In only Sri Lanka’s third Test victory, 20-year-old offspinner Muttiah Muralidaran starred with figures of 3/22 and 4/134 against New Zealand, including two wickets of Martin Crowe, helping his team win by nine wickets.

1979 – Delhi Thriller: India vs Pakistan

India nearly chased 390 despite being bowled out for 126 in their second innings, thanks to Dilip Vengsarkar’s marathon 146 not out over nine hours. Earlier, a bizarre run-out involving Dilip Doshi nearly caused a riot, but Pakistan captain Majid Khan diffused the situation. Pakistan eventually won by four wickets.

1866 – Birth of John Sharpe

Born this day, John Sharpe overcame the loss of an eye to play three Tests and take 338 first-class wickets at an average of 16.06. His career ended abruptly in 1894 due to a severe loss of form, and he died in Nottingham in 1936.

1983 – Birth of Rumeli Dhar

All-rounder Rumeli Dhar was born on this day. She played crucial roles in India’s 2005 World Cup run to the final and in the 2009 Women’s World T20, helping the team reach the semi-final.

Last updated on: December 9, 2025