VVS Laxman Reflects on Historic 2001 Kolkata Test Partnership with Rahul Dravid

A Memorable Cricketing Moment

New Delhi, March 14: Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman fondly recalled his legendary partnership with Rahul Dravid during the remarkable Kolkata Test of 2001. He emphasized that their collaboration was rooted in belief, patience, and resilience, especially when the match appeared to be slipping away from India.

As they commemorate 25 years since that unforgettable innings at Eden Gardens, Laxman shared a nostalgic photo with Dravid on social media, reflecting on a moment that significantly altered the course of the Test and is celebrated as one of cricket's greatest comebacks.

“Twenty-five years ago at Eden Gardens, Rahul and I formed a partnership that will always hold a special place in my heart. When the game seemed lost, we chose to rely on belief, patience, and resilience. This partnership was not merely about scoring runs; it was about trust, teamwork, and fighting for every session. I am grateful to have shared this journey with Rahul and to be part of a Test that taught us that comebacks in cricket are always achievable,” Laxman expressed.

This day marks a pivotal moment in Indian cricket, as the fourth day of the second Test between India and Australia in Kolkata witnessed the inception of one of the sport's most memorable partnerships.

At that time, Australia was on a remarkable 16-match Test winning streak. Captain Steve Waugh had famously referred to the tour as the “final frontier” for his team. The visitors began strongly, securing a 10-wicket win in the first Test in Mumbai, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Australia continued their dominance in the Kolkata Test, amassing 445 runs in their first innings before bowling India out for just 171, enforcing the follow-on. India found themselves in a precarious position at 232/4 in their second innings when Laxman and Dravid joined forces at the crease.

The duo forged an extraordinary 376-run partnership, with Laxman scoring a career-defining 281 and Dravid contributing a resilient 180. On Day 4, they batted throughout the entire day without losing a wicket, accumulating 335 runs in the sweltering heat of Kolkata.

Their achievement was even more impressive given the physical challenges they faced. Dravid was battling a viral fever, while Laxman suffered from severe back spasms, yet both displayed remarkable mental strength to continue batting and wear down the Australian bowlers.

By the time Australia finally broke their partnership on the fifth day, India had reached 608/5. The hosts declared at 657/7, setting Australia a daunting target of 383 runs in just over two sessions on a deteriorating pitch.

India then tightened their grip with spin bowling, led by Harbhajan Singh, who claimed a famous hat-trick earlier in the match. Sachin Tendulkar also played a vital role with the ball, dismissing Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden, and Shane Warne in quick succession, shifting the contest firmly in India's favor.

Ultimately, Australia was bowled out for 212, granting India a remarkable 171-run victory, marking one of the rare instances in Test history where a team has won after being forced to follow on.

The triumph at Eden Gardens is celebrated as one of cricket's greatest comebacks and a defining moment in India's emergence as a formidable force in Test cricket.