India vs Pakistan: Why 2007 Was the Last Test Series?

The rivalry between India and Pakistan is often called the "Mother of all Battles," but for nearly two decades, a massive void has existed in the longest format of the game. It is a startling fact that the Last India vs Pakistan Test Series took place way back in 2007. Since then, fans have been deprived of the classic red-ball tension between these two giants. In this chapter of The Stumpstorys, we will explain in detail all the big records, batting and bowling battles and stats of this series.

Before starting, if you want to read in detail about the Pakistan-India rivalry, click on the following link👇

THE GREATEST RIVALRY

The Historic Context: India's Victory After 27 Years

The 2007 series was monumental for the Indian side. By clinching the three-match series 1-0, India won Test series in home against Pakistan after 27 years. The last time India had defeated Pakistan in a home Test series was back in 1979/80 under Sunil Gavaskar.

This series also marked a new era in Indian cricket as it was Anil Kumble first series as Test captain. The legendary leg-spinner led from the front, finishing as the leading wicket-taker of the series with 18 scalps. Of course, this series is a great memory for India and every cricket fan like me feels the emotions hidden within this series, be it Pakistani or Indian.

India vs Pakistan 2007 Test Series Results & Highlights

This series featured 3 thrilling matches played in Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru.

1. 1st Test (Delhi): India won by 6 wickets.
2. 2nd Test (Kolkata): Match Drawn.
3. 3rd Test (Bengaluru): Match Drawn.

The India vs Pakistan 2007 Test Series Results culminated in a 1-0 victory for the hosts, but the individual performances on both sides were nothing short of extraordinary.

Batting Masterclasses: Ganguly, Jaffer, and Misbah

The 2007 series was a nightmare for bowlers as the batters dominated the flat tracks of the subcontinent.

The Prince of Kolkata’s Redemption

In the second Test at Eden Gardens, the local hero stole the show. Sourav Ganguly 239 vs Pakistan 2007 remains one of the most celebrated innings in his career. It was his first and only double-century in Test cricket, proving his mettle in the twilight of his career. He ended the series as the top scorer with 534 runs.

Wasim Jaffer’s Elegant Double Ton

The Kolkata Test also saw a magnificent Wasim Jaffer 202 against Pakistan. Jaffer’s technical brilliance at the top of the order provided India the cushion they needed to dominate the Pakistani bowling attack.

Misbah-ul-Haq: Pakistan’s Lone Warrior

For Pakistan, the silver lining was the emergence of Misbah-ul-Haq as a Test specialist. His Misbah-ul-Haq 133 vs India in the second Test and another century in the third Test (133*) showcased his incredible temperament. He finished the series with 464 runs, becoming the backbone of the Pakistani middle order.

Bowling Heroes and Debuts

While the pitches favored batsmen, some bowlers managed to leave a lasting impact.

• Yasir Arafat 5 wickets on Test debut: In the final Test at Bengaluru, Yasir Arafat made a dream start to his career by picking up a 5-wicket haul in the first innings.
• Anil Kumble’s Leadership: As mentioned, Kumble was the most successful bowler with 18 wickets, proving that his appointment as captain was a masterstroke.
• Supporting Cast: Danish Kaneria (12 wickets) and Harbhajan Singh (10 wickets) also played crucial roles in keeping the scoring rates in check.

The End of an Era: Why No Tests Since 2007?

The 2007 tour was meant to be just another chapter in a long history of bilateral cricket. However, due to escalating political tensions and the tragic events in Mumbai in 2008, bilateral cricketing ties were suspended.

While they continue to meet in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups, the Last India vs Pakistan Test Series remains frozen in time. As a child growing up in that era, I remember the electric atmosphere in the streets. Coming home from school to catch a glimpse of Shoaib Akhtar's run-up or Sachin's cover drive is a memory. Every cricket fan wants this era to come again when these distances end and a great game like cricket is made a source of closeness again. You all can also share your opinion in the comment section.