Former India batting legend Rahul Dravid turns back time and recalls the historic 2001 Kolkata Test. He reveals how the atmosphere during the final session of the 5th day is amongst a few things he remembers from his playing days.

Recalling the classic 2001 Kolkata Test, Dravid says how the support and encouragement from the crowd helped them win the historic Test match.

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Dravid was part of a Star Sports‘ Kolkata 2001-Dravid & Laxman Special show. During the same, he revealed a few things the former skipper remembers from the historic 5th day from the 2001 Kolkata test. He said,  “The atmosphere on the last day, after tea, the time when we were trying take wickets, Harbhajan Singh was bowling and wickets were falling. The support from the crowd was incredible. The crowd at Eden Gardens helped us win the 2001 Kolkata Test. That support, encouragement, and cheer after every ball, I remember it till now and I can still feel that.”

He added, “There are not many things I remember about my career. But one of the occasions was after tea, the atmosphere and intensity at the ground, that’s why it’s great to see a full stadium here at Eden Gardens. That’s an experience every cricketer must experience.”

In response to Australia’s first innings score of 445, India bundled out for a mere 171. Following on, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman batted throughout the 4th whole day as India amassed a massive 657/7. Dravid and Laxman racked up the scores of 180 and 281 respectively during their innings.

Australia had to chase 384 to win the match. However, Harbhajan stole the limelight by picking a hat-trick as Australia was dismissed for 212.  It is one of the most famous wins in Indian cricket history.

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Dravid, wants the upcoming cricketing generation to experience playing in jam-packed crowd stadiums. Something that seems very difficult for the time being, amid the Corona crisis.

Dravid said, “Playing in front of a packed stadium and that kind of energy. These are the kind of things I remember. The energy and vibe in the dressing room, the vibe on the ground, that’s something that stays with you. As a former cricketer, you wish that the next generation gets to experience the things we experienced and even more.”