India toured England for three tests in 1982 with Pakistan following for three more. In 1981-82 India won a six match series in India by 1-0. They had two world class batsmen in Gavaskar and Vishwanath and a great all rounder in Kapil Dev. P Roy's father played in Ireland with the 1952 team. Ireland played the regular 1981 team but alternated Harper and Harte in the two matches. Cohen was not available due to exams, and BA O'Brien had retired after 52 matches since 1966. Monteith was still contracted to Middlesex.

The two teams on the steps of the Ormeau pavilion

India batted more or less by arrangement. They reached 179-2 in 48.5 overs when a sudden deluge made the square a lake despite covers. No further play was possible despite subsequent sunshine. Messrs. Carreras/Rothmans sponsored the matches (£2500 sterling) and British Airways gave the Indians a half fare rate on the London flight. Messrs. Robert Wallace shirts provided souvenir ties.

Michael Halliday and Ravi Shastra after a ground inspection

The batting was entertaining. The score was kept moving by very quick running and somewhat untidy fielding. Roy and Parker, both small men, put on 69. The first 50 came in 11.3 overs with 19 singles and two boundaries. Parker hooked Torrens for a six but two overs later Torrens bowled him. 69-1-35. Torrens bowled well and took 1-44 in his 11 overs. He could have had Roy in his next over when the batsmen, defending himself, just cleared the wicket keeper. Halliday also had a good stint, bowling his 11 overs for 34 of which 12 came off the last two overs. Roy went to 50 in 100 minutes. The score at lunch was 135-1 off 35 overs, Roy 63, Patil 30. Anderson had a stint at both ends. Jackson missed a stumping chance but the ball caught a deflection off the pads. At 162 Anderson bowled Patil and with Vishwanath six not out the monsoon arrived. Roy was made Man-of-the-Match.