OTD| England’s star opener Andrew Strauss was born in 1977

This article will discuss On This Day | England’s star opener Andrew Strauss was born in 1977. Former English captain Andrew Strauss is celebrating his 47th birthday today. The elegant left-hander was one of the best openers England ever had in Test cricket. His international career lasted for almost a decade and Strauss remained an integral part of the team. Not just a player but he played an instrumental role as a leader as well. 

Andrew Strauss made his debut in international cricket in 2003 when he played his first One-day international match against Sri Lanka at Dambulla. Some impressive knocks in 50-over cricket and consistent performances in first-class cricket ensured that the youngster found his place in the English Test squad as well. Strauss played his maiden Test match against New Zealand at Lord’s in May 2004. From there it was a special journey for a player who mastered Test cricket. 

The Test specialist

Andrew Strauss had a long career in both Test and ODI cricket but he particularly excelled in Test cricket. The left-hander played 100 Test matches for England which is a big achievement. He scored more than 7000 runs in Test cricket at an average of 40.91. The ability to perform on big occasions made the former English captain a special player. He smashed 21 centuries in the longest format along with 27 half-centuries. 

In the ODI format, Strauss played 127 matches scoring 4205 runs at an average of 35.63. He played some impactful innings in the 50-overs format including the one in the 2011 World Cup against India where he scored 158 runs. The batter from Middlesex also represented England in T20I cricket but his stint in the shortest format was short-lived. He only played 4 matches in T20I cricket. 

Andrew Strauss had a rich legacy in the Ashes and these are the contributions that defined his legacy as an England legend. He played his last international game in 2012 against South Africa at Lord’s.