Laxman inpires a historic win for India over Australia by CricketArchive Staff Reporter

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Ground:	Punjab Cricket Association Stadium, Mohali
Scorecard:	India v Australia
Player:	I Sharma, VVS Laxman
Event:	Australia in India 2010/11

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DateLine: 5th October 2010

 

VVS Laxman once again became the thorn in Australia's flesh as he inspired India to a memorable one-wicket victory on the final day of the first Test. Chasing 216 to win, the home team eventually reached their target with just on wicket left.

 

With an injured back, Laxman showed why he is considered to be the best in the word when pressure mounts a match-winning 73 not out. His 79-ball knock was inclusive of eight hits to the fence. Laxman and Ishant (31) put on a vital 81-run partnership for the ninth wicket that helped India recover from a precarious position following a batting collapse on the fifth morning.

 

A debatable decision from umpire Ian Gould cost Ishant his wicket. But a favourable decision helped Ojha (five not out) save his wicket. And that helped India clinched the match.

 

India began the fifth and final day on the back-foot. Chasing 216 to win, the visitors had made 55 for four at stumps on day four.

 

Sachin Tendulkar started the day with a slew of boundaries. Zaheer Khan was the first to depart, edging a Hauritz delivery to Michael Clarke at slips. Despite his injury, Laxman began on a confident note, hitting successive boundaries off Hauritz. The duo put on 43 runs for the sixth wicket, in just 37 balls.

 

Doug Bollinger struck as a short delivery caused Tendulkar's downfall as he was caught by Hussey at gully. Captain MS Dhoni didn't last long, finding himself short of the crease following a throw from Hilfenhaus. Once Harbhajan Singh departed things looked gloomy for the Indiands before Laxman played a gem.