5 of Gambhir's most significant contributions in India's cricket history

93 and 64 vs South Africa, 3rd Test played between 2-6 January 2011 at Cape Town

Gambhir's fighting innings at Cape Town against a world-class bowling attack helped India create history.

After two gruelling Test matches, the series between India and South Africa was level at 1-1. In the series decider, South Africa scored 362 in the first innings, after a 161 from Jacques Kallis and a five-wicket haul to Sreesanth.

India were on the back foot after losing both Sehwag and Dravid with the score at 28. Gambhir and Sachin Tendulkar steadied things, stitching together a 176-run partnership to put the team back on track. Yet again, Gambhir got out in the nervous 90's - but his job was still only half done.

With India managing only a two-run lead in the first innings, thanks to a blistering 146 from Sachin Tendulkar (his record 51st and last Test century), South Africa managed to give India a 340-run target despite a seven-wicket haul by Harbhajan Singh.

India had only one full day to chase the target, but decided to save the Test rather than going for the target.

India lost Sehwag early despite a cautious start by the otherwise explosive opener. Dravid and Gambhir played with an almost dead bat and played till lunch and beyond. While Dravid lost his wicket before tea, Gambhir batted two sessions - getting out for 64 off 184 balls. Tendulkar and Laxman played out the remaining overs to secure a draw.

Gambhir scored 242 runs in only 4 innings in the series, including three fifties at an average of 60.50. His consistent run and specifically this performance, helped India secure their first ever Test series draw in South Africa - their best result in South Africa to date.