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The County Championship of England stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious domestic cricket competitions in the world. Organized by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), this first-class cricket tournament features county cricket clubs from England and Wales battling it out for supremacy on the cricketing stage. Dating back to 1890, the County Championship has witnessed countless memorable moments and remarkable performances that have shaped the course of cricketing history.
Within the hallowed grounds of English cricket, Indian batters have left an indelible mark with their exceptional displays of skill and prowess. Recently, India’s Karun Nair, who rose to fame after hitting a triple century against England in 2016, again made it to the headlines after he smashed a double hundred in the County Championship.
Let us delve into the extraordinary achievements of the Indian cricketers who have carved their names in County Championship folklore by smashing double centuries on English soil, a feat that remains a rarity in the rich history of this respectable tournament.
Mohammad Azharuddin- 1994
Former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin left an indelible mark on County Championship cricket with his exceptional batting class. Playing for Derbyshire, he reached this mark twice, scoring 212 against Leicestershire in 1991 and 205 against Durham in 1994. His elegant stroke play and impeccable technique mesmerized spectators and opponents alike, solidifying his reputation as one of India’s finest cricketing talents.
Cheteshwar Pujara-2022
Cheteshwar Pujara, a stalwart of Indian cricket, created history with his prolific run-scoring abilities. Representing Sussex, Pujara shattered records by scoring three double centuries in the 2022 season alone and became the only Indian to achieve this feat. His unwavering concentration, impeccable technique, and calm temperament made him a force to be reckoned with on the English county circuit, earning him accolades and admiration from cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
The three centuries of Pujara came against Derbyshire (201*), Durham (203) and Middlesex (231). Notably, he got a standing ovation from his teammates and crowd at the Lord’s Ground following his ace innings against Middlesex.
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Karun Nair- 2024
Nair, representing Northamptonshire, etched his name in the annals of cricket history with a stunning double century against Glamorgan. On the third day of the match, Nair’s masterful innings unfolded, as he faced 253 deliveries to amass an impressive 202 runs. His innings included 21 boundaries and 2 towering sixes, showcasing his impeccable timing and shot selection. With this remarkable performance, Nair joined an elite club, becoming only the third Indian batter to achieve a double century in the highly esteemed County Championship.
Double-Hundred for @karun126 in County Championship.
He scored 202*(253) with 21 Fours and 2 Sixes.pic.twitter.com/jIQE9dQFLX
— CricketGully (@thecricketgully) April 21, 2024
