On this day, 23 years ago, Indian cricket witnessed one of its most remarkable moments at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, two of India’s most revered batsmen, orchestrated a stunning partnership that would go down in history as one of the greatest turnarounds in Test cricket.
The Match Situation:
After losing the first Test match against Australia, India faced a daunting task in the second Test. Australia posted a formidable first-innings total of 445 runs, bowling out India for just 171 in reply. Forced to follow-on, India found themselves struggling at 115/3 in the second innings when Laxman joined Dravid at the crease.
The Partnership:
What followed was an extraordinary display of skill, resilience, and determination by Laxman and Dravid. The duo batted for the entire day, stitching together a monumental partnership of 376 runs. Laxman played one of the finest innings in Test cricket, scoring 281 runs, while Dravid supported him brilliantly with a knock of 180 runs.
The Turning Point:
The partnership not only helped India avoid the follow-on but also set the stage for a historic comeback. By the end of day three, India had reached 254/4, with both batsmen still at the crease. Their partnership not only frustrated the Australian bowlers but also demoralized the opposition.
Thanks to Laxman and Dravid’s heroics, India went on to score 657/7 in their second innings, setting a target of 384 runs for Australia. The Indian bowlers then rose to the occasion, bowling out Australia for 212 runs and securing a famous victory by 171 runs.
Legacy:
The 376-run partnership between Laxman and Dravid is etched in the annals of Indian cricket history as one of the most memorable moments. It showcased the resilience and fighting spirit of Indian cricket and remains a source of inspiration for cricketers and fans alike.
March 14, 2001, will always be remembered as the day when VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid defied the odds, produced a masterclass in batting, and engineered one of the greatest turnarounds in Test cricket. Their partnership will forever remain a testament to the spirit of cricket and the magic it can create on the field.
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