In 2013, James Faulkner’s cricketing journey took a significant leap forward. He had already announced his presence by taking six wickets in his Test debut, but it was his remarkable performances in One Day Internationals (ODIs) during the 2013-14 season that truly elevated his status. One of these performances that became etched in memory was his extraordinary innings against India. Faulkner’s exceptional rearguard effort of 64 runs from just 29 balls in Mohali steered Australia to an unlikely victory. It was a display of determination and skill that left a lasting impression.Shortly thereafter, he achieved another milestone when he scored his first international century. His scintillating innings of 116 runs from 73 balls, played in Bangalore, was a testament to his ability with the bat, even though it came in a losing effort.Faulkner’s heroics were not limited to batting alone. He displayed his prowess with the ball as well. In a nail-biting encounter against England at the Gabba, he etched his name in cricketing history with a spectacular last-over performance. Needing to secure victory, Faulkner exhibited his composure under pressure by smashing three consecutive boundaries off Tim Bresnan’s deliveries, securing a win with just three balls to spare.These remarkable performances firmly established James Faulkner as a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket, and his journey continued to be one filled with promise and potential.
