On this day in 2009, Virender Sehwag delivered one of the most spectacular innings in Test cricket history, narrowly missing a chance to become the first player ever to score three triple centuries in the format. His dazzling 293 against Sri Lanka at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium remains etched in memory as a masterclass in aggressive batting.
A High-Scoring Contest Begins
Sri Lanka, batting first, posted a formidable 393 on the back of Tillakaratne Dilshan’s 109 and Angelo Mathews’ 99. India responded in spectacular fashion, with Sehwag and Murali Vijay forging a mammoth opening stand of 221 runs. Vijay contributed a steady 87, but it was Sehwag’s breathtaking assault that stole the show.
Sehwag’s Brilliance
Facing a bowling attack featuring legends like Muttiah Muralitharan, Rangana Herath, and Nuwan Kulasekara, Sehwag exhibited his trademark controlled aggression. His innings included 40 fours and seven sixes, scored at an astonishing strike rate of 115.35. This remarkable display of batting saw Sehwag surpass 6,000 Test runs, making him the third-fastest Indian to achieve the milestone.
At the close of the second day, Sehwag remained unbeaten on 284, just 16 runs shy of a record third triple century. Fans eagerly awaited the historic moment on the following day.
Agonizing End to a Dream Innings
The anticipation on the third morning was palpable, but Sehwag’s dream run came to an abrupt end. In the fourth over of the day, a deceptive slower delivery from Muralitharan saw Sehwag miscue a simple catch back to the bowler. His extraordinary innings ended at 293, just seven runs short of history. The Brabourne crowd was stunned into silence as their hopes of witnessing cricketing history were dashed.
Despite the heartbreak, India continued to dominate the game. Contributions from Rahul Dravid (74), Sachin Tendulkar (53), and an unbeaten 100 from captain MS Dhoni helped India declare at a colossal 726/9, taking a massive lead.
India’s Resounding Victory and Historic Milestone
In their second innings, Sri Lanka managed 309 before being bowled out, handing India an emphatic victory by an innings and 24 runs. Harbhajan Singh shone with four wickets in the first innings, while Zaheer Khan claimed a five-wicket haul in the second.
This win not only sealed a 2-0 series triumph for India but also elevated them to the top of the ICC Test rankings for the first time in history—a proud moment for Indian cricket.
Sehwag’s Well-Deserved Accolades
For his blistering performance, Sehwag was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series, cementing his place as one of the most destructive batsmen the game has ever seen. Though his triple-century quest ended in heartbreak, his innings remains a testament to his fearless approach and unparalleled skill.
