In a feat unmatched in international cricket, New Zealand’s legendary left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori holds the rare distinction of being the only bowler to dismiss India’s iconic trio—Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and Rahul Dravid—for ducks. Across a career spanning 18 years, Vettori’s tactical brilliance and deceptive flight allowed him to achieve what no other bowler could: send all three batting giants back to the pavilion without scoring in separate matches.
The Ganguly Dismissal – Kanpur Test, 1999
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Vettori’s first scalp in this elite trio came during New Zealand’s tour of India in 1999
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In the first innings of the Kanpur Test, Ganguly was dismissed for a five-ball duck via a caught and bowled effort
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Known for his aggressive play against spinners, Ganguly misjudged Vettori’s flight and fell early
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Vettori bowled a marathon spell of 55.1 overs in that innings, claiming six wickets and showcasing his endurance and control
The Tendulkar Duck – Delhi ODI, 1999
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Just days after the Kanpur Test, Vettori struck again in the fifth ODI at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium (now Arun Jaitley Stadium)
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Tendulkar, India’s batting maestro, was dismissed for a three-ball duck, again caught and bowled
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Despite the personal milestone for Vettori, New Zealand lost the match by seven wickets and conceded the series 3–2
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The dismissal highlighted Vettori’s ability to outfox even the most technically sound batsmen with subtle variations
The Dravid Moment – Tri-Series Final, 2005
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Vettori had to wait six more years to complete his unique trio
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In the final of a tri-series involving India, New Zealand, and Zimbabwe, Dravid was dismissed for a two-ball duck
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Vettori trapped him leg-before wicket, showcasing his precision and ability to exploit early vulnerabilities
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India posted 276 runs, but New Zealand chased it down comfortably with six wickets in hand
Why This Feat Stands Out
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Tendulkar, Ganguly, and Dravid collectively amassed over 38,000 international runs, making their dismissals for zero a statistical rarity
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Each of them had a reputation for dominating spinners, especially in subcontinental conditions
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Vettori’s dismissals came in different formats and years, underscoring his consistency and adaptability
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The achievement is not just about numbers—it reflects a bowler’s psychological edge and strategic mastery over elite opposition
Legacy Of Daniel Vettori
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Vettori retired with 705 international wickets across formats, including 362 in Tests and 305 in ODIs
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He captained New Zealand in 32 Tests and 82 ODIs, earning respect for his tactical acumen and calm leadership
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Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching roles, including stints with IPL franchises and national teams
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His ability to combine spin with subtle pace changes and sharp fielding made him one of the most complete cricketers of his generation
Conclusion
Daniel Vettori’s rare achievement of dismissing Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and Rahul Dravid for ducks is etched in cricketing folklore. It is a testament to his skill, patience, and strategic brilliance. In a sport where legends are hard to conquer, Vettori’s quiet dominance stands tall—proof that even the most formidable can be undone by craft and composure.
Sources: India TV News, Hari Bhoomi, Cricbuzz.
