Credit: @BCCI
In a cricket saga etched with the rhythm of resilience, India made history at Eden Gardens in 2001, breaking Australia's unbeaten 16-match streak and defying all odds as the third team to triumph after following-on. Beyond the scores, it's a story of unwavering courage, determination, and the spirit of triumph against the odd
Embarking on a journey back to March 15, 2001, we find ourselves standing at the crossroads of history on the hallowed grounds of Eden Gardens. This date resonates with the echoes of cricket's genesis, as it marks the inaugural International Test match in 1877, where Australia triumphed over England.
However, the eve of March 14 whispers the tale of an extraordinary comeback etched in the hearts of every cricket enthusiast. Amidst the lush greens of Kolkata, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid sculpted a resplendent saga, a partnership of 376 runs, not just salvaging India but weaving a narrative of unparalleled resilience and triumph over Australia's dominance. Let's unravel the pages of this cricket epic, where, against all odds, India scripted history.
Facing the juggernaut led by Australian skipper Steve Waugh, the Indian cricket team entered the second Test at Eden Gardens with the daunting task of reversing their fortunes. The Australian lineup boasted luminaries like Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Mark and Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Shane Warne, and Glenn McGrath.
In the first inning, Australia set a formidable total of 445 runs, with Captain Steve Waugh leading the charge with a century. Harbhajan Singh, representing India, showcased remarkable bowling prowess, claiming seven wickets to mitigate the Australian onslaught.
The Indian batting order's response was less than ideal, folding at a mere 171 runs. Given the follow-on, India was faced with a daunting deficit of 276 runs.
Credit: @cricbuzz
Day three witnessed India at 254/4 in a dramatic turnaround, with VVS Laxman already holding a century and Rahul Dravid laying the foundation for a historic comeback. Their monumental partnership of 376 runs, characterised by Laxman's extraordinary 281 and Dravid's steady 180, became the linchpin of India's resurgence.
On Day 5, India declared at 657/7, presenting Australia with an imposing target of 384 runs in 75 overs. Australia, needing a victory to seal the series, faced formidable spin spells from Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar.
Harbhajan Singh, weaving his magic, orchestrated the dismissal of key Australian batsmen, claiming his second five-wicket haul in the match. Tendulkar played a pivotal role, dismissing Hayden, Gilchrist, and Warne.
Minute by minute, hour by hour, session by session!#OnThisDay in 2001, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid stroked India back into contention in Kolkatahttps://t.co/nAP8GxrtMF pic.twitter.com/LLYsXMI9xm
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 14, 2019
India clinched a historic 171-run victory, breaking Australia's undefeated streak of 16 Test matches. This remarkable comeback not only saved the series for India but also propelled them to a 2-1 triumph under the leadership of Sourav Ganguly.
Credit: @merin_kumar
2001 Laxman and Dravid batted. And batted. They batted all day. Against Australia
March 14, 2001, wasn't just a date on the cricket calendar; it was a day etched in stories of grit, passion, and against-all-odds victories. Imagine Team India, led by Sourav Ganguly, facing the mighty Australians, eyeing redemption after a challenging series.
Down and seemingly out, they rose like the proverbial phoenix at Eden Gardens. Not only did they halt Australia's 16-match unbeaten run, but they etched their names in history as the third team ever to snatch victory after being asked to follow-on.
It wasn't just about the numbers; it was about the unwavering commitment and courage displayed on that hallowed ground. The hero of the saga? Harbhajan Singh is weaving a spell with 32 wickets. As we revisit this tale, let's not just see it as a cricketing triumph but as a tale of the human spirit conquering all odds, reminding us that some victories go beyond the scorecard.
