In his debut book, sports journalist Aditya Iyer highlights Sourav Ganguly’s reflections on career-defining moments, from his mother-in-law’s bold prediction during India’s historic 2001 win over Australia to tough calls like dropping senior players. Ganguly’s emotions at India’s 2011 World Cup win reveal his deep connection to the team he helped shape
The 2001 Kolkata Test between India and Australia, often regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history, saw India on the ropes after a poor start to the series. Australia, under Steve Waugh’s captaincy, was on a record-breaking 16-match winning streak and had already claimed victory in the first Test in Mumbai. At Eden Gardens, Australia continued to dominate, amassing 445 runs in their first innings, with Matthew Hayden and Steve Waugh leading the charge.
India, in response, struggled under pressure and managed only 171 runs, with Australia’s bowlers, especially Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, exploiting the conditions effectively. With a 274-run lead, Australia enforced the follow-on, hoping to wrap up the series with another decisive win.
India, in response, struggled under pressure and managed only 171 runs, with Australia’s bowlers, especially Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, exploiting the conditions effectively. With a 274-run lead, Australia enforced the follow-on, hoping to wrap up the series with another decisive win.