Exactly 23 years ago today, something truly incredible happened at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, marking a momentous occasion in Indian cricket history. VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, two cricketing legends, teamed up to create magic on the field, leading to an unforgettable Test victory against Australia.
March 14, 2001, will forever be remembered for the outstanding partnership between Laxman and Dravid, who displayed extraordinary skill and determination throughout the day. Together, they amassed a remarkable 376 runs, turning the tide of the match and setting the stage for one of India’s most famous comebacks.
Commemorating the same VVS Laxman shared a heartfelt message with a picture alongside Dravid.
“Great to catch up with my partner in crime, 23 years to the day since we batted out the entire day against Australia in Kolkata. Rahul and I went down memory lane, reliving and reminiscing that riveting series! What fun”, Laxman wrote on Twitter.
This remarkable stand between the two batsmen became a defining moment, especially considering India’s challenging situation after being forced to follow on by Australia. Without their heroics, India’s historic triumph by 171 runs would have seemed impossible.
Laxman’s magnificent innings of 281 runs, coupled with Dravid’s solid contribution of 180 runs, showcased their exceptional talent and resilience as they held the crease for three sessions.
Facing adversity after losing the first Test and conceding a substantial first-innings lead to Australia, the odds were stacked against India. However, with the score at a precarious 115 for 3, Laxman and Dravid joined forces, sparking a remarkable fightback. Against all odds, they guided India to a position of strength at 254/4 by the end of day three.
Despite Australia’s expectations of a quick finish the following day, Laxman and Dravid defied all predictions with their masterful display of batting. Laxman’s sublime innings of 281 runs set a new standard for Indian batsmen in Test cricket, a record later surpassed by Virender Sehwag. Dravid’s contribution of 180 runs further solidified India’s resurgence, cementing their place in cricketing history.
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