‘Sourav Asked Me…’: Ex-India Star Reveals Unheard Story with Steve Waugh in 2001 Kolkata Test

The historic Test match that took place on March 15, 2023, in Kolkata, is still etched in the memories of Indian cricket fans. It was a moment of national pride as India halted Steve Waugh‘s formidable Australian team’s 16-match winning streak. Despite being on the back foot initially, with the Aussies posting an intimidating 445 and the Indian side collapsing at a measly 171, the true magic unfolded later. Australia enforced a follow-on, and it seemed nearly impossible for the Indian team to bounce back. Nevertheless, the iconic partnership of VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid emerged, as they racked up an incredible 281 and 180 runs, respectively. Their unbelievable 376-run stand for the fifth wicket turned the tables in the match, resulting in India declaring their second innings at an astonishing 657/7. This extraordinary comeback, widely hailed as one of the greatest come-from-behind victories in cricket history, demonstrates the sheer determination and resilience of the Indian cricket team.

In one of the most exhilarating cricket matches ever witnessed, India managed to halt the mighty Australian squad’s winning streak in their own backyard. Needing 384 runs for victory, the Australian team was left dumbfounded as they were dismissed for a paltry 212, thanks to the phenomenal bowling spell by India’s ace spinner, Harbhajan Singh, who claimed six crucial wickets. This exceptional performance paved the way for India to triumph in the series 2-1. The deciding Test took place in Chennai, where an electrifying atmosphere enveloped the stadium as India clinched victory by a nail-biting margin of just two wickets. This historic event will forever be etched in the annals of cricket, representing a monumental and inspiring win for the Indian team.

The echoes of India’s unforgettable triumph at the Eden Gardens 22 years ago still reverberate in the hearts of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Recently, Hemang Badani, a former Indian cricketer who played a crucial role in that victory, shed light on an untold chapter from that iconic game. Stepping onto the field as a substitute for Nayan Mongia, Badani received explicit instructions from the then captain, Sourav Ganguly, to sledge the Australian batters on the final day of the Test. This strategic psychological warfare not only demonstrates the level of competitiveness and tactical acumen present in that historic win but also underscores the vibrant camaraderie and unity within the Indian squad, which drove them to clinch that victory against all odds. As the sun sets on the remarkable careers of those involved in that match, new stories like Badani’s continue to show us the depth and richness of their legacy.

The fifth day of the match took an unexpected turn when our keeper, Mongia, suffered an injury, which led to me stepping in as a substitute fielder. Sourav, our captain, aware of my linguistic capabilities and knowing that I could effortlessly communicate in English, entrusted me with the responsibility of making it challenging for the Australian team. The situation then transformed into a strategic and exhilarating game of mental prowess, with me relentlessly taunting and challenging the Aussies, adding a thrilling layer of competition to the match. This electrifying experience, shared on my official Twitter profile, showcased not only the immense physical demands of the sport but also the psychological tactics employed by players to gain an upper hand on the field.

It’s incredible to think back on that exhilarating cricket match, when, as Badani reminisced, he was still fresh from his pre-test debut and found himself face to face with a seasoned player like Steve Waugh, the Skip with over one hundred test games under his belt. Against all odds, Badani had a decisive role in Waugh’s dismissal, taking an immensely significant catch off of Harbhajan’s delivery in the second innings. The energy in the air was palpable, and the chain reaction this started ultimately resulted in the side’s collapse. As Badani asserted, there has never been a better match he was a part of, making it a uniquely fabulous and memorable moment that will forever be etched in the minds of both players and fans alike.