In the intense theatre of Test cricket, the limelight is frequently stolen by superstar batters and bowlers. However, once in a while, it happens that a tailender steps up when his team is in a difficult situation. From valiant last-wicket stands that defied time to improbable rearguard actions that left spectators in awe, we explore ten instances where the unlikeliest of heroes emerged. With unwavering grit, unyielding determination, and, occasionally, sheer luck, these tailenders defied formidable bowling attacks and displayed steadfast resilience. Their contributions not only secured draws or miraculous wins but also etched their names into the annals of cricketing history.
1. Jack Leach
It was the third test of the 2019 Ashes, and England were in trouble. Not only would they lose the match, but the Ashes as well. Leach came in with England requiring more than 70 runs and Stokes on the other end. It will always be remembered for the Stokes innings, but Leach held on to one end, scoring one run off 17 balls, enabling Stokes to go for the victory.
2. Jimmy Anderson And Stuart Broad
With signs looking ominous for England, the pair of Broad and Anderson saved the match from the jaws of defeat. Their stand ensured that Australia did not whitewash England. The duo played two overs in a jittery manner without scoring a run. Broad ended on eight runs off 35 balls, while Andersen, remained not out on zero. Their heroics saved England from four consecutive defeats and showed their experience and grit.
3. Jimmy Anderson And Monty Panesar
Australia had scored a mammoth first innings total of 674 runs and England were on the verge of an innings defeat. Collingwood fell with England still trailing by six runs. Panesar, along with Anderson managed to take a lead and hold on to their wickets. Anderson faced 53 deliveries while Panesar faced 35, ensuring England managed to save the match. They went on to win the series 2-1.
4. Brett Lee And Glenn McGrath
England was close to a famous victory in the third test of the 2005 Ashes series. Ponting fell after scoring an impressive 156, bringing Australia close to the target. It was now a matter of saving the test match, and the last pair of Lee and McGrath survived four overs to grab a draw when England looked sure to win.
5. Pat Cummins And Nathon Lyon
Australia looked good on the way to victory until Khawaja fell, followed by Alex Carey. They now needed 54 runs, and suddenly England were in control of the game. However, Stokes erred in giving Root one too many overs and Cummins made the most of it. He took it to the English bowlers and saw Australia over the line alongside Lyon, who at first held on to one but then played some shots.
6. Ashton Agar
England had Australia on the brink in the first-innings with nine wickets down on 117 runs. In came Agar and stitched a partnership with Hughes. He faced 101 deliveries and scored 98 runs, giving Australia some semblance of stability in the match. England did win in the end but not by a massive margin which would have been the case if Agar had not come through for Australia.
7. Jasprit Bumrah And Mohammad Shami
England had taken a handy first innings lead of 27 runs and had the match in their grasp. India were eight wickets down and had 209 runs on board. That is when Shami and Siraj stitched a partnership of 89 runs, facing more than 22 overs and leaving Kohli in a solid position to declare. These were valuable runs that helped India to win the match in the end.
8. Jimmy Anderson
India scored a formidable 451 runs in their first-innings and had England cornered when Anderson launched a counterattack, facing 130 balls and scoring 81 runs. His knock alongside Root ensured that England took a handy first innings lead which forced India to bat long and thereby end the test match in a draw.
9. Harbhajan Singh
Although India had a first innings lead of 28 runs, a batting collapse ensured they were in deep trouble. Singh then came to the rescue, not just holding an end, but scoring runs. He ended up with a century to his name, scoring 115 runs, which proved crucial for India to draw the game.
10. Glenn McGrath And Jason Gillespie
Australia already had a formidable lead in the first innings. However, McGrath and Gillespie took it even further, ensuring that Australia would not need to bat again by putting on a partnership of 114 runs. The pressure affected the New Zealand batting, which collapsed for 76, handing the victory to Australia by an innings and 156 runs.
