The Eden Gardens Test of 2001 between India and Australia remains etched in the annals of cricket history as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Indian team. While the match is primarily remembered for the heroics of VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, the bowling performance of Sachin Tendulkar played a pivotal role in India’s historic victory.
Australia, riding high on a record-breaking 16-match winning streak, seemed invincible. After enforcing the follow-on, they appeared to be cruising towards another triumph. However, Laxman and Dravid forged a monumental partnership, setting the stage for a thrilling final day.
With Australia chasing a daunting target of 384, India needed quick wickets to seize the initiative. Captain Sourav Ganguly turned to Tendulkar, a part-time bowler known for his occasional breakthroughs.
Tendulkar, justifying Ganguly’s faith, delivered a remarkable spell. He dismissed the dangerous Adam Gilchrist for a duck, trapping him leg before wicket as he attempted a sweep. The in-form Matthew Hayden, another major threat, also fell victim to Tendulkar’s leg-spin, going leg before wicket while attempting the same shot.
Tendulkar’s most significant scalp was that of legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne. With a cunning googly, he trapped Warne plumb in front of the wicket, giving Australia a taste of their own medicine.
Tendulkar’s bowling figures in the second innings were an impressive 3 wickets for 31 runs in 11 overs. His performance was instrumental in turning the tide in India’s favor.
India eventually bowled out Australia for 212, winning the match by 171 runs. This victory, considered one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history, marked only the third time a team had won after following on.
Tendulkar’s contribution with the ball, alongside the monumental batting performances of Laxman and Dravid, played a crucial role in breaking Australia’s unbeaten streak and changing the momentum of the series, which India eventually won 2-1.
