Indian Cricket Victories

In 1971, Indian cricket achieved historic victories that will be etched in the annals of the sport. Led by Ajit Wadekar, the Indian Cricket Team achieved remarkable success by winning two rubbers consecutively, first against the formidable West Indies team and then against England on English soil.

During the tour of the West Indies from February to April 1971, the Indian team, under Wadekar’s leadership, performed admirably. They clinched victory in the second test at Trinidad, which also marked the silver anniversary of games between India and the West Indies. This victory was significant as it was the first test ever won against the powerful West Indies team. The success of the Indian team was largely attributed to the stellar performance of spinners Prasanna, Bedi, and Venkat Raghavan, supported by the batting prowess of Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Sardesai.

Following this remarkable feat, India achieved another milestone on August 24, 1971, by securing their first Test victory on English soil against England at Kennington Oval. This victory, which also clinched the rubber, was particularly memorable as it was achieved at a venue with a rich history of Test cricket since 1880. Once again, Wadekar led the team with distinction, with spinners Venkat Raghavan and Chandrasekhar playing pivotal roles. While two tests played at Lord’s and Trent Bridge ended in draws, India emerged victorious in the third test at the Oval by four wickets.

The Indian Posts and Telegraphs Department celebrates these historic triumphs by commemorating the victorious Indian team and its captain through a special stamp. The stamp design, horizontal in orientation, depicts a cricketer in characteristic poses of batting, bowling, and wicket-keeping, serving as a tribute to the passion for cricket in India and beyond.