Cricketers Born on August 01

Michael WatkinsonENG
Michael Watkinson

64y / 1961

All-rounder

Maqsood RanaPK
Maqsood Rana

53y / 1972

All-rounder

Nigar SultanaBD
Nigar Sultana

28y / 1997

Wicket-keeper batsman

Maheesh TheekshanaLK
Maheesh Theekshana

25y / 2000

Bowler

Player Info

1924 – The Birth of a West Indies Icon

One of cricket's most influential figures, Frank Worrell, was born on this day. A classy left-handed batter, Worrell became the first Black cricketer to regularly captain the West Indies. His leadership on the 1963 England tour, which the Windies won 3–1, and during the unforgettable 1960–61 series in Australia, earned him global respect. That series inspired the creation of the Frank Worrell Trophy, now contested between Australia and the West Indies.

His 1950 tour of England was a personal triumph—scoring 539 runs at an average of 89.83, including his career-best 261 at Trent Bridge. Knighted in 1964, Worrell served as a Jamaican senator before tragically passing away from leukemia at just 42. He was honored with a memorial service at Westminster Abbey—a rare tribute for a cricketer.

1989 – The Ashes Slip Away from England

Australia sealed the Ashes at Old Trafford, taking a 3-0 series lead. It would be the last time England held the urn for more than 16 years. The day also saw controversy as a 16-man England squad was announced for a rebel tour of apartheid-era South Africa. Nine of them had featured in that summer's Ashes, including three captains. One of them, John Emburey, nearly saved the day with Jack Russell, who scored his first Test century during a gritty 142-run stand after England had slumped to 59 for 6.

1969 – Graham Thorpe Is Born

Known for his grit and elegance, Graham Thorpe was born on this day. He made a memorable Test debut with a century against Australia in 1993 at Trent Bridge. A master of counterattacking under pressure, Thorpe was central to many of England's rare victories in the 1990s, including standout performances in Barbados, The Oval, Adelaide, and Edgbaston.

His finest moment came in Colombo (2000–01), where his unbeaten 113 and 32 guided England to a famous series win. Personal challenges in 2002 led to a break from the game, but he returned to help England dominate the West Indies and New Zealand. He retired after missing out on the 2005 Ashes and later served as a respected batting coach. Thorpe was appointed head coach of Afghanistan in 2022 but tragically passed away in 2024 after a long illness, aged 55.

1978 – Andy Blignaut Is Born

Born today, Andy Blignaut was one of Zimbabwe's most promising allrounders. He burst onto the scene with 5 for 73 on Test debut in 2001 and added valuable lower-order runs. However, his career was often marred by disputes with the board and fellow players. Blignaut briefly turned to modelling before making multiple comebacks, including a memorable 5-wicket haul against Pakistan in 2002. He was later part of the rebel players' strike in 2004 and eventually ended his international journey after one last return in 2010.

1910 – India’s First Fast-Bowling Star

Mohammad Nissar, India's first genuinely quick bowler, was born today. Known for his pace and ability to move the ball, he formed a legendary opening partnership with Amar Singh. In India's debut Test at Lord's in 1932, Nissar made an immediate impact by removing Holmes and Sutcliffe early. On that tour, he claimed 71 wickets at 18.09, and in unofficial Tests against Australia in 1935, he took 32 wickets at just 13 runs apiece.

1931 – Trevor Goddard Is Born

A classy allrounder, Trevor Goddard captained South Africa to a creditable series draw against Australia in 1963–64. Described as underdogs, Goddard's side surprised many. He later hit a captain's century against England and took a wicket with his final Test delivery in 1969–70. Known for his sharp cricketing brain, Goddard later became a preacher.

1993 – England Women Win the World Cup

England's women's team lifted the World Cup at Lord's for the first time since 1973, beating New Zealand by 67 runs. Opener Janette Brittin top-scored with 48 in a memorable final.

1935 – Geoff Pullar’s Birthday

Born today, Geoff Pullar was a dependable opener for England in the late 1950s and early '60s. After starting as a middle-order batter, he was promoted to open in 1959, scoring 75 at Headingley and 131 at Old Trafford—becoming the first Lancastrian to make a Test hundred on that ground. He was particularly impressive against the West Indies in 1959–60.

1955 – Arun Lal Is Born

Indian opener Arun Lal played 16 Tests between 1982 and 1989. Despite strong domestic performances, international opportunities were limited due to stiff competition. He made 63 on debut and enjoyed a consistent run following Gavaskar's retirement. After his playing days, he became a familiar voice in the commentary box.

1983 – New Zealand's Historic Win in England

At Headingley, New Zealand secured their first-ever Test win in England. Lance Cairns took 10 wickets, and Bob Willis briefly gave England hope with five quick wickets, but the Kiwis held their nerve to seal a memorable victory.

1952 – Yajurvindra Singh’s Record

Yajurvindra Singh, born today, etched his name into the record books by taking five catches in an innings against England in 1976–77, equaling the world record.

1934 – John Beck’s Unlucky 99

New Zealand's John Beck, born today, was famously run out for 99 against South Africa in 1953–54 and never managed a Test hundred in his career.

1861 – Sammy Jones is Born

Sammy Jones, born this day, was the last surviving player from the iconic 1882 "Ashes" Test. He was controversially run out by W.G. Grace, spurring Australia to a sensational victory. He survived smallpox on his 1888 England tour and died in 1951.

Last updated on: July 31, 2025