17th February 2005: When the World Opened Its Doors for T20 Cricket

T20 cricket has changed the complexion of the game forever. Since it’s inception, the world is divided over how it sees the shortest format of the game. On this day, way back in 2005, first ever T20I game was played between Australia and New Zealand.

The match is most remembered for Kiwis sporting retro uniforms, with mustaches and wigs.

In the match, after batting first, Australia posted a mammoth 214 runs on the board. Ricky Ponting was the star of the innings as he scored brilliant 98 runs from just 55 deliveries. The innings consisted of eight fours and five sixes.

In reply, Kiwis could only manage 170 runs, and lost by 44 runs. Only one player, Scott Styris took the attack to the opposition and scored a quick-fire 66. Aussie bowler Michael Kasprowicz was the star with the ball as he claimed four wickets for just 29 runs.