On January 12, 1964, the cricket world witnessed an extraordinary display of precision bowling during the first Test match between India and England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Indian left-arm spinner Bapu Nadkarni etched his name into the record books by bowling an astonishing 21 consecutive maiden overs — 131 deliveries without conceding a single run. This feat remains unparalleled in the annals of cricket for its sheer endurance and accuracy.
Nadkarni, who made his debut for India in 1955, was known for his economical bowling style, but on this particular day, his control over the ball was near magical. England's batsmen, baffled by his skillful spin and unwavering line and length, struggled to score off Nadkarni. The monotony of dots was finally broken after Nadkarni had delivered 21 overs, but by then, he had already secured a permanent place in cricketing folklore.
The context of this performance is essential in appreciating its significance. The 1960s were a period dominated by great batsmen, and scoring rates in Test cricket were considerably higher compared to later decades. Thus, Nadkarni's spell against a strong England lineup under hot and humid conditions underscores not just physical stamina but also immense mental fortitude.
Nadkarni's final figures for the innings were 32-27-5-0. These numbers reflect an economy rate that is nearly unthinkable in modern-day cricket across any format. While he did not take many wickets, his pressure-building overs contributed significantly to the team's strategies, forming a critical part of India's bowling attack.
Bapu Nadkarni's career, notable for its longevity and consistent performances, saw many highlights, but the Chennai Test of 1964 remains a pinnacle, often cited in discussions around the greatest bowling spells in cricket history. This exemplary performance not only set a benchmark for bowlers but also served as an inspiration for future generations regarding the virtues of control, patience, and endurance in sports.
