THE WALL

 

Image Credit- ESPN CricInfo.

Venue- Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi [April 2004].

India's visit to Pakistan during the 2003-04 cricket season was significant for several reasons. It symbolized the revival of cricketing relations between the neighboring countries and provided a platform for India's emerging cricketers to showcase their talent and cement their places as legends of the sport, which they certainly did not fail to do. The pivotal three-match Test series, clinched 2-1 by India, was dominated by Virender Sehwag, who etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian to surpass the 300-run milestone during the Multan Test. While players like Irfan Pathan, Lakshmipathy Balaji, and Anil Kumble contributed consistently throughout the series, it was Rahul Dravid who emerged as the savior for the visiting team in the decisive match at Rawalpindi.

With the series tied at 1-1, the fate rested on the outcome of the third Test in Rawalpindi. Despite a lackluster performance by his standards earlier in the series with scores of 6, 33, and 0, Rahul Dravid seized the moment to turn the tables. Supported by Balaji's impressive four-wicket haul on Day 1, which restricted Pakistan to 224, Dravid relieved the pressure on India's batting lineup. However, Shoaib Akhtar dealt a blow to India by dismissing the in-form Virender Sehwag for a duck, leaving Dravid with a monumental task.

The experienced campaigner, alongside Parthiv Patel, steered India towards stability. Yet, Dravid's remarkable turnaround began on Day 1 when he reached 100 runs, and by Day 3, he soared to 270 – his highest Test score – guiding India to a commanding total of 600. Reflecting on his performance, Dravid recalled a light-hearted prediction he had made after the first day's play when he felt confident about his batting despite a modest score.

India's imposing total proved insurmountable for Pakistan as they faltered for the second time in the match. Anil Kumble claimed four wickets, while Balaji snared three, securing India's victory by an innings and 131 runs, thus clinching the series 2-1.

To watch that knock, Click Here.