Indian cricket witnessed a memorable batting performance on October 31, 1987, when Sunil Gavaskar produced his only One Day International century against New Zealand during the 1987 Cricket World Cup in Nagpur.
Chasing a target of 222 runs at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Ground, India delivered a commanding batting performance, with Gavaskar leading the charge through an unbeaten 103 off just 88 deliveries.
Gavaskar, widely recognised for his outstanding achievements in Test cricket, demonstrated a different side of his batting in this encounter. His innings featured 10 boundaries and three sixes, as he took on the New Zealand bowling attack with remarkable confidence and attacking intent.
At the other end, opening batter Kris Srikkanth provided an explosive start, scoring 75 from 58 balls, including nine fours and three sixes. The opening partnership added 136 runs, putting India firmly in control of the chase.
After Srikkanth's dismissal, Mohammad Azharuddin joined Gavaskar and contributed an unbeaten 41 from 51 deliveries. The pair guided India comfortably towards victory without losing another wicket.
India eventually reached 224/1 in just 32.1 overs, securing a convincing nine-wicket victory with 107 balls remaining.
The match also became historic for Chetan Sharma, who claimed the first-ever hat-trick in Cricket World Cup history by dismissing Ken Rutherford, Ian Smith and Ewen Chatfield in consecutive deliveries.
Gavaskar and Sharma shared the Player of the Match award for their outstanding contributions.
Despite his legendary career, Gavaskar scored only one ODI century, making this unforgettable World Cup innings particularly special in his international career.
On This Day: October 31, 1987
Tournament: 1987 Cricket World Cup
Venue: Nagpur, India
India: 224/1 (32.1 overs)
New Zealand: 221/9 (50 overs)
Result: India won by nine wickets.
