Kolkata, March 17 (NationPress) A quarter-century ago, India achieved one of the most extraordinary wins in Test cricket history at Eden Gardens. The legendary 2001 Test match against Australia was revisited as Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan, and Venkatesh Prasad shared their nostalgic memories of that iconic comeback, while Sourav Ganguly participated in the discussion virtually.

Reflecting on that incredible triumph, then captain Sourav Ganguly stated, “It was destiny. It was like a fairytale. I can’t pinpoint any specific strategy that led to it. It simply unfolded.”

One of the key players in that victory was Harbhajan Singh, who had a significant impact with the ball. Discussing his bond with the venue, he remarked, “I owe my existence to my parents, but I can't imagine my life without Eden Gardens.”

He also recounted how he earned his place in that Test match: “Every time I visit here, those memories flood back. Anil Kumble was injured, and John Wright needed a wicket-taker. They trialed several bowlers and thought I was the best option. Ganguly pushed for my inclusion, as I was performing well in domestic cricket.”

Reflecting on the last day of the match, Harbhajan noted, “By the fifth day, we had set a target. Knowing Australia, they would attack fiercely. The timing of our declaration was debated in the dressing room, but ultimately around 74 to 76 overs proved sufficient. The fantastic catches by Rahul Dravid, Shiv Sundar Das, and S Ramesh were critical. That Test instilled belief in us.”

Venkatesh Prasad, another pivotal player from that match, shared a memory that still haunts him. “I dropped a catch, and the crowd’s noise made it worse. The tea break was torturous for me. It was constantly replayed on television. Commentators Ravi Shastri and Ian Chappell kept discussing it. I dreaded facing coach John Wright, who said, 'You must catch those, man.'”

Zaheer Khan also reflected on that remarkable turnaround. “At the start of the fourth day, we had a discussion. I believe Chetan Chauhan was our manager. He emphasized, 'We must not lose a wicket all day.' The way Laxman and Dravid batted helped us build a lead that made it impossible to lose.”

Harbhajan praised Ganguly, calling him “the best captain I ever played under.” He recalled an incident that highlighted Ganguly’s leadership: “I was left out in seaming conditions. It was either Kumble or me, and it was the legendary Anil Bhai who played. The next day, he reached out to me. I didn’t go. He called again, but I was upset and didn’t respond. He even offered, 'I’m making coffee for you.' Such a kind person.” Zaheer added, “Ganguly was very approachable.”