Two English legends Michael Atherton and Alec Stewart made their 100th Test appearance together 24 years back on this day. The match against the West Indies was hosted at the Old Trafford in Manchester. It was a special occasion for Atherton, who was playing the milestone game at his home ground. Meanwhile, Stewart was up against the same opponents he faced in his debut Test in 1990.
#OnThisDay in 2000 against the Windies at Old Trafford, Michael Atherton and Alec Stewart each received their 100th Test caps, while Marcus Trescothick made his Test debut.On the second day, Stewart became just the fourth batsman to make a century in his 100th Test. pic.twitter.com/zdRNSWCGmq
— ICC (@ICC) August 3, 2018
On the eve of their 100th Test, the then-Chairman of the England Selectors, David Graveney admitted, “I’m not saying they can’t be replaced, but it isn’t going to be easy ” as quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
After the first two matches, the series were at level. The West Indies registered a dominant victory in the opening Test in Birmingham. England came roaring back in the second match at Lord’s and claimed a two-wicket win. Caribbean captain Jimmy Adams won the toss in the third Test and elected to bat first.
The English pacers stole the show with the new ball in the first innings. For the West Indies, only Ramnaresh Sarwan could breach the 30-run mark in the first innings.
Among others, Wavell Hinds and Jimmy Adams added 26 and 24 runs respectively. Dominic Cork registered a four-wicket haul for England while Andy Caddick claimed three dismissals.
Michael Atherton managed one run in the first innings of his 100th Test. Opening with Marcus Trescothik, Atherton survived 16 balls before falling victim to Courtney Walsh.
Alec Stewart, on the other hand, excelled with the bat on the special day. The wicketkeeper notched a brilliant century and was England’s top scorer with 105 runs in the first innings. The hosts bundled out for 303.
The West Indies batting lineup looked more composed in the second innings. Sherwin Campbell and Adrian Griffith each registered a fifty to earn a perfect start. Skipper Jimmy Adams also notched a half-century while Brian Lara contributed with a 102-run knock as the visitors declared their innings for 438.
England had to chase down a 293-run target. Michael Atherton and Marcus Trescothick stitched a 42-run partnership before lunch on the final day of the Test.
Atherton had scored 28 off 63 balls and Courtney Walsh trapped him for a caught behind. England were at 63/1 when the rain stopped play in Manchester.
The match finally ended in a draw. Alec Stewart was named the Player of the Match for his ton in the first innings.
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