June 20 holds a special place in Indian cricket history, marking the Test debuts of three players who would go on to become giants of the game — Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli. Though they started in different years and under varying circumstances, each of them left a lasting impact on Indian cricket.
In 1996, India were on tour in England and arrived at Lord’s for the second Test of the series. With the team undergoing changes, Ganguly and Dravid were handed their Test caps. What followed became the stuff of legend. Ganguly, batting at No. 3, scored a majestic 131 on debut, announcing himself in style at the Home of Cricket. His cover drives and confidence under pressure stood out instantly.
At the other end, Dravid, who came in at No. 7, compiled a solid 95 before falling just short of a debut century. While Ganguly’s innings was more flamboyant, Dravid’s knock was marked by grit and classical technique — qualities that would define his career. That Test marked the start of two outstanding journeys, with both players becoming the backbone of India’s middle order for years to come.
Fifteen years later, on the same date in 2011, a young Virat Kohli made his Test debut against the West Indies at Sabina Park in Kingston. Fresh off India’s World Cup triumph earlier that year, expectations were high. However, Kohli endured a difficult start, scoring 4 and 15 in his two innings. The challenge of red-ball cricket proved a steep learning curve.
Despite that modest beginning, Kohli quickly adapted to the demands of the format. He went on to become one of India’s most prolific Test batsmen and a successful captain, leading the side to memorable victories both at home and abroad. Kohli retired as India’s most successful Test captain. The former skipper amassed an impressive 9,230 runs from 123 Tests at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. He made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies and played his final match earlier this year against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
June 20 may be just another date on the calendar, but for Indian cricket, it marks the beginning of three remarkable Test careers. Ganguly, Dravid and Kohli — each in their own way — reshaped the team and inspired a new generation. Their debuts may have been separated by years, but their legacies remain firmly intertwined in the fabric of Indian cricket.
