Historic India Comebacks in Cricket

Cricket is a game of uncertainty, and the Indian cricket team has time and again proven its resilience by making some of the most thrilling comebacks in the sport’s history. These historic India comebacks in cricket not only showcase the team’s fighting spirit but also remain unforgettable moments for fans across the globe.

1. The 2001 Kolkata Test Against Australia

One of the most famous comebacks in cricket history took place at Eden Gardens in 2001. After being forced to follow on, India, led by VVS Laxman (281) and Rahul Dravid (180), stitched together a legendary 376-run partnership. Harbhajan Singh’s hat-trick and seven wickets in the second innings sealed a dramatic 171-run victory, ending Australia’s 16-match winning streak.

2. The 2021 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Win

After being bowled out for 36 in the first Test in Adelaide, India made an incredible turnaround despite injuries and the absence of key players. The series culminated in a historic victory at the Gabba, where Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 89 helped India chase down 328, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue.

3. The NatWest Final, 2002

Chasing 326 at Lord’s against England, India was struggling at 146/5 before Mohammad Kaif (87)* and Yuvraj Singh (69) scripted a stunning chase. The famous image of Sourav Ganguly waving his jersey from the Lord’s balcony remains etched in cricket history.

4. The 2013 Champions Trophy Final

After setting a modest target of 129, India’s bowlers, led by Ravindra Jadeja (2/24) and Ishant Sharma (2/36), restricted England to 124/8, securing India’s second ICC Champions Trophy title under MS Dhoni’s captaincy.

5. The 2024 Series Against England

India lost the first Test of the series despite a strong first-innings lead. However, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, the team bounced back to win the next four Tests, completing a rare 4-1 series victory, breaking a 112-year-old Test record.

6. Rishabh Pant’s Return to Test Cricket (2024)

After a life-threatening car accident in 2022, Rishabh Pant made a remarkable comeback to Test cricket in 2024. He scored a crucial century against Bangladesh, proving his resilience and determination to return to the sport.

These moments define Indian cricket’s never-give-up attitude, making them legendary in the annals of the game. From impossible run chases to fighting back from humiliating defeats, India’s comebacks continue to inspire cricket lovers worldwide.