VVS Laxman: 5 best Test knocks against Australia

5) 281 (2nd Test at Kolkata; March 11-15,2001)

The best innings of VVS's Test career

"You didn't bowl badly, you just came up against the player who I think is the best batsman of spin bowling that I have ever seen"- Ian Chapell to Shane Warne

Ah, that majestic knock! A knock so wonderful that in 2016, it was awarded the best innings in the last 50 years by the ICC. This innings itched Laxman’s name into the golden books of cricketing history. A knock that made the entire cricketing world stand up on its feet and applaud this gem of a cricketer. The opposition Australia were awestruck too and hence originated the affectionate abbreviation of VVS- Very Very Special.

In reply to Australia's 445, the Indian team was bowled out for 171 runs in the 1st innings and were forced to follow on. Australia had the match in control but things took an interesting turn when Laxman walked in at No. 3. He weaved a record partnership of 376 runs with Rahul Dravid for the 5th wicket.

During his unbelievable stay of 631 minutes at the crease, he registered a phenomenal knock of 281 runs off 452 deliveries that comprised of 44 boundaries. Dravid too played a magnificent knock of 180 runs.

The cricket enthusiasts at the Eden Gardens witnessed a magical display of batting. Shane Warne was gracefully flicked on the on-side, McGrath was beautifully driven on the covers and Gillespie was gently cut through the gap on the off-side for four.

The skipper Steve Waugh tried 9 bowlers to get rid of Laxman and Dravid but for 631 and 446 minutes respectively, Laxman and Dravid tormented the Australian bowlers who, to their credit, utilized every strategy and trick to get rid of them.

Amidst the thunderous standing ovation applauses, India declared their 2nd innings at 657/7, giving Australia a target of 384 runs to win. This time, the Indian bowlers got the better of the opponents and bowled them out for 212 runs.

Harbhajan Singh scalped 6 wickets and India won the match by 171 runs, the exact amount of runs they had scored in the 1st innings, hence carving a proud and unforgettable victory for the Indian fans.