140 years of Test Cricket: Google dedicates playful Doodle to mark the anniversary

New Delhi: Technology giants Google dedicated a playful Doodle to celebrate the 140th anniversary of first official Test cricket played between England and Australia in 1877.

According to the official statement, “Today’s Doodle hits the deck with a lighthearted rendering that captures the spirit of sportsmanship and the inaugural test match. Mustachioed and musclebound, the batsmen, bowlers and opposition fielders spring into action, never losing sight of the red ball.”

The first ever officially recognised Test match began on March 15, 1877 between cricket's traditional rivals – Australia and England at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Australia won the match by 45 runs. Interestingly, an over only consisted of four balls, and there was also a rest day on Day 4 of the match.

Australia batted first and the first ball was bowled by Alfred Shaw to Charles Bannerman, who went on to become the first centurion in Test by scoring 165 when he retired hurt with a right hand index finger injury.

England, however, squared the two-Test series by winning the next game at the same venue by four wickets.

(With Agency inputs)