India’s Independence Day holds deep emotional value for the nation and cricket has often been a part of the celebration in its own unique way.
While August 15 is best known for flag hoisting ceremonies and patriotic fervour, there have been occasions when the Indian cricket teams, men’s and women’s, have been in action on the same day.
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Interestingly, every one of these fixtures has been part of overseas tours, mostly in the longer format, with just one limited-overs outing.
The results have been a mixed bag with some heartbreaks, some memorable victories, and one match where rain was the biggest headline.
What is India’s overall record in matches on August 15?
Over the years, the Indian cricket team has played eight matches on Independence Day. The first such game dates back to 1952, while the most recent came in 2021.
Here is the overall record:
| Matches Played | Won | Lost | Drawn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
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How did each match on Independence Day go for India Men's team?
1952 vs England- A rain-hit Test saw little play after England posted 326. India managed only 98 before the weather took over. The match ended without a result.
2001 vs Sri Lanka- Half a century later, India played Sri Lanka in Colombo and suffered a heavy 10-wicket defeat.
2014 vs England- The visitors were blown away by an innings-and-244-run loss at The Oval.
2015 vs Sri Lanka- Another August 15 clash ended in a 64-run loss for India in Galle.
2019 vs West Indies- The only ODI on the list. India celebrated the day in style with a six-wicket win, powered by a Virat Kohli century.
2021 vs England- One of India’s finest overseas wins came at Lord’s, with a 151-run victory sealed.
India Men’s Cricket Team- Matches on 15th August
Here is the list of matches played by the India men’s cricket team on 15th August:
| Year | Venue | Format | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1936 | London | Test | England | Lost |
| 1952 | London | Test | England | Drawn |
| 2001 | Galle | Test | Sri Lanka | Lost |
| 2014 | London | Test | England | Won |
| 2015 | Galle | Test | Sri Lanka | Lost |
| 2021 | London | Test | England | Won |
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India Women’s Cricket Team – Matches on 15th August
Here is the list of matches played by the India women’s cricket team on 15th August:
| Year | Venue | Format | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2002 | Taunton | Test | England | Drawn |
| 2014 | Wormsley | Test | England | Won |