Former England captain and one of the finest batters in cricket history, Graham Gooch is celebrating his 71st birthday today (July 22). In a career spanning nearly 25 years, the right-hander has amassed more than 67,000 runs in first-class and List-A cricket. He is one of only 25 players to have scored more than 100 first-class centuries.
Gooch has represented England in 243 international matches and has scored over 13000 runs. In his 125 ODIs, the opening batter has accumulated 4290 runs at an average of 36.98, including eight centuries and 23 fifties. As the legendary cricketer celebrates his special day, let’s take a look at his top three performances in 50-over cricket.
Here are Graham Gooch’s top 3 batting performances in ODIs:
3. 115(136) vs India, Wankhede, 1987 (WC semifinal)
One of his best performances was against India in the 1987 World Cup semi-final. Showing his ability to thrive under pressure, Gooch scored a brilliant century to help England to 254/6 in the first innings. He slammed 115 runs off 136 balls with the help of 11 boundaries. In reply, India were bowled out for 219, and the visitors cruised to the final with a comfortable 35-run victory.
2. 129*(118) vs West Indies, Port of Spain, 1986
Gooch played a match-winning knock in the second ODI of England’s tour of the West Indies in 1986. West Indies posted 229 runs in 37 overs on the back of half-centuries from Desmond Haynes, Richie Richardson and captain Viv Richards. Gooch remained unbeaten on 129 off 118 balls and took his team over the line in the final ball of the innings with five wickets in hand.
1. 142(134) vs Pakistan, Karachi, 1987
The prolific English opener recorded his best batting performance in the second ODI of England’s tour of Pakistan in 1987. Gooch’s blazing hundred (142 off 134) saw England post 263/6 in 44 overs after opting to bat first. Pakistan were looking good to chase down the target with Ramiz Raja leading charge. However, the Men in Green fell short of 23 runs as they were reduced to 240/8.