The greatest Test innings by Indian batsmen post-2000 that wasn't a century

2. VVS Laxman 96 vs South Africa, Durban, 2010

VVS Laxman's brilliant 96 to India's rescue yet again

After losing the 1st test to South Africa at Centurion by a huge margin, a demoralized Team India had to win this Test match to level the three match series. On a green top at Durban, India were bowled out for a paltry 205 in the first innings with VVS Laxman making a valuable 38.

The Indian bowlers responded well, bowling the Proteas out for 130 earning India a valuable lead of 75. However in their second essay, India were reduced to 56-4 by an inspired South African attack.

With the lead at a precarious 130 and the home team smelling blood, ready to go for the knock out punch, VVS Laxman, yet again, played a sensational match winning innings.

His innings of 96 on a tough pitch against a South African attack boasting of the best bowling pair at that time in Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel at the most critical juncture got India to 228. This helped to push the lead over 300 resulting in another one of India's greatest overseas victories propelled by the Very, Very Special Laxman.