‘The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan’ review – A nostalgic ride for 90s cricket fans

“The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan” is a three-part documentary series on Netflix that explores the intense cricket matches between India and Pakistan, especially from 1999 to 2008. During this time, both teams were evenly matched, and cricket served as a bridge between the two nations.

The series highlights memorable moments like Pakistan’s warm reception in Chennai, Anil Kumble’s remarkable 10-wicket achievement in Delhi, Shoaib Akhtar’s impactful performance at Eden Gardens, and India’s historic victories in Pakistan. These events are sure to bring back fond memories for those who watched them live and offer younger viewers a glimpse into a significant era of cricket.

However, the documentary doesn’t cover earlier periods when matches between India and Pakistan often ended without a clear winner. From 1952 to 1990, out of 44 Test matches, 33 concluded as draws, reflecting a cautious approach from both sides. Including this history would have provided a more comprehensive view of the rivalry.

The film also omits notable incidents like the 2004 Multan Test, where Rahul Dravid declared the innings with Sachin Tendulkar nearing a double century, sparking widespread discussion. Such moments are crucial to understanding the full scope of the cricketing relationship between the two countries.

While the documentary offers valuable insights and nostalgia, it feels somewhat incomplete due to these omissions. For a more in-depth understanding, readers might consider exploring “Pundits from Pakistan” by Rahul Bhattacharya, which provides a detailed account of the 2004 tour.

In summary, “The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan” is an engaging watch for cricket enthusiasts, especially those interested in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, a broader historical perspective would have enriched the narrative, offering a fuller picture of this storied rivalry.