Description Scinde medal (Hyderabad) 22nd Foot. Hyderabad 1843, John Hart 22nd Regt (Impressed naming) The 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment of Foot holds a unique place in British military history as the only British infantry unit present at the Battle of Hyderabad The battle began with a fierce artillery duel, but the decisive moment arrived when Napier ordered the 22nd Foot to lead the frontal assault. The soldiers had to advance across nearly 1,000 yards of open, scorching plain under heavy matchlock fire. Their objective was a steep, fortified bank lined with Baluchi warriors. Despite the intense heat and the exhaustion from the previous month’s campaigning, the “Cheshires” maintained their discipline, advancing in a steady line that intimidated the defenders. Upon reaching the nullah, the 22nd engaged in desperate hand-to-hand combat. The Baluchi forces fought with legendary ferocity, using swords and shields, but they could not withstand the systematic bayonet charges and disciplined volleys of the British infantry. The regiment eventually scaled the high banks, breaking the centre of the Baluchi line. This breakthrough, supported by a timely cavalry charge on the flanks, turned the enemy’s position into a rout. The 22nd Foot suffered significant casualties, including Major Pennefather, who was severely wounded while leading from the front. However, their success secured the city of Hyderabad and effectively ended the resistance of the Amirs of Sindh. The regiment was granted the battle honour “Hyderabad” to commemorate their bravery. Their performance at remains a textbook example of 19th-century British infantry tactics—relying on unwavering nerves and the “cold steel” of the bayonet to overcome overwhelming numerical odds in extreme environmental conditions. Condition – FineHeavy contact marks and edge brushing, but naming still readable.
