June 29, 2002—a date etched in Indian cricket history as a 20-year-old Yuvraj Singh delivered a stunning all-round performance to guide India to a six-wicket victory over England in the NatWest Series opener at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
🏏 Yuvraj’s Breakout Performance on English Soil
In a match that foreshadowed his future greatness, Yuvraj Singh:
- Took 3 wickets for 39 runs in 7 overs, dismissing key English batters including Nasser Hussain, Andrew Flintoff, and Graham Thorpe
- Scored an unbeaten 64 off 65 balls, anchoring India’s chase under pressure
- Was named Player of the Match for his match-winning all-round display
This performance marked the beginning of a memorable tour for Yuvraj, who would later play a pivotal role in India’s historic NatWest Series final win at the same venue.
🏟️ Match Summary: India vs England, NatWest Series 2002
- England Innings: 271/7 in 50 overs
- Marcus Trescothick: 86 (78)
- Nasser Hussain: 54 (82)
- Yuvraj Singh: 3/39
- India Innings: 274/4 in 48.5 overs
- Virender Sehwag: 71 (65)
- Rahul Dravid: 73* (84)
- Yuvraj Singh: 64* (65)
India’s chase began with a blazing 109-run opening stand between Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly (43). However, a middle-order collapse saw India slip to 141/4, losing Ganguly, Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, and Dinesh Mongia in quick succession.
That’s when Yuvraj and Dravid steadied the innings, combining caution with aggression to take India home with seven balls to spare.
🧠 Legacy of the Performance
This match was a turning point in Yuvraj’s career, showcasing his potential as a dependable all-rounder. It also set the tone for India’s spirited campaign in the 2002 NatWest Series, culminating in the unforgettable final where Yuvraj and Mohammad Kaif scripted one of India’s greatest ODI chases.
Stay tuned for more “On This Day” cricket flashbacks.
