5 gritty Test knocks that ended in tears 

#1 Hashim Amla's epic vigil at Eden Gardens ends in defeat, Kolkata, 2010

Hashim Amla during his epic effort

After India had been steamrolled in the 1st Test of the two-match series back in 2010, the hosts had to perform in the final Test in Kolkata and they did so by dismissing South Africa for 296 in the 1st innings. Then India piled on the runs as Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman and MS Dhoni all got centuries. India declared at 643 for 6 and with a lead of 347, it was their game.

South Africa had to bat for just over two days to save the Test. It did not go well for them as their first three wickets fell by the 33rd over of their innings but then Hashim Amla dropped anchor and decided to play one of those epic knocks that can often make bowlers appear clueless.

His defence was solid, he hardly ever played a loose shot, he left anything remotely outside off and played the spinners with soft hands. In total, he batted for 8 hours and 19 minutes and faced 394 deliveries.

Wickets fell around him but he was unmoved and he got able support from number 9 Wayne Parnell and then number 11 Morne Morkel. However, in fading light and with the match seemingly heading for a draw, Morkel was dismissed and Amla's monumental effort went in vain.