Follow-On to Famous One: When Dravid and Laxman pulled off the impossible in 2001 and how DH covered that Test match

India’s victory in the second Test of the 2001 Border–Gavaskar series at Eden Gardens, 25 years to the day, is one of cricket’s greatest comebacks. Australia arrived with a record 16-Test winning streak and had already beaten India in Mumbai, leaving the hosts on the brink of series loss.

When Australia scored 445 and bowled India out for 171, enforcing the follow-on, defeat seemed inevitable. The turnaround began with VVS Laxman, promoted to No. 3, who produced a magnificent 281, filled with elegant strokeplay. Rahul Dravid provided the perfect support, displaying immense resolve for his 180.

Rahul Dravid celebrating his ton

They shared a monumental 376-run stand and completely tilted the balance. India declared at 657/7, setting Australia a daunting target. Under pressure, Australia caved in against Harbhajan Singh. The off-spinner, who had already taken a historic hat-trick in the first innings, finished with 6/73 in the second for a 13-wicket haul.

VVS Laxman during his mammoth knock of 281

Australia, dismissed for 212, handed India a stunning 171-run victory. The Indians then won the final Test in Chennai to clinch the series.