5 instances when VVS Laxman proved to be India’s disaster management specialist

#4 New Zealand vs India, Ahmedabad, 2010

Laxman was rock solid in the second innings

Dravid and Virender Sehwag’s centuries in the first innings gave India a great start in the match as the hosts posted 487 runs. The Black Caps replied with an equally strong performance as they managed 459 runs.

On day 4, with a lead of just 28, India were expected to bat out the day and end the final day with no trouble. However, Chris Martin and co. had other plans for the Indians and the visitors suddenly found themselves in a miserable position at 15 for 5.

Unsurprisingly, Laxman stepped up and this time, he had a new partner in Harbhajan Singh. They shared an excellent partnership of 163 runs for the seventh wicket and took India from 65 for 6 to 228 for 7.

While Harbhajan batted flamboyantly with 11 boundaries and three sixes, Laxman was calm and composed as always. However, Bhajji stole Laxman’s thunder with a superb 115 runs off 193 balls. More importantly, India escaped a thumping defeat in their backyard.