After producing yet another gem against the Aussies, VVS Laxman was treated for more than two hours by Team India physio Nitin Patel.
After producing yet another gem against the Aussies, VVS Laxman was treated for more than two hours by Team India physio Nitin Patel. While the rest of the team had reached the hotel, Laxman was the last to leave the dressing room at the PCA Stadium.
"This is definitely one of the greatest wins of my career," Laxman told MiD DAY just before leaving the stadium. "It is difficult to compare this with any other inning, all big knocks are important, it is unfair to compare," the 35-year old said.
Incomparable
However, Laxman was very clear that the knock he played at Kolkata nine years ago would always be closer to his heart. "Nothing can ever compare with that innings. 281 at Eden Gardens will always be ahead. That was my most memorable knock ever."
In 2001, Laxman (281) and Dravid (180) helped India beat the Aussies after Sourav Ganguly's Indians were asked to follow-on by Steve Waugh. It was one of the most amazing Test wins of all time. After losing the first Test in Mumbai, India won in Kolkata and Chennai.
Asked if he was fit to play the Bangalore Test that gets underway on Saturday, he said: "Yes, I am totally fit now. My back is doing great. Hopefully I will play," he said. MiD DAY has learnt that Laxman informed Indian cricket board officials that his back is improving and that he is eligible for selection.
Laxman rarely shows any emotions on the park, but there was a moment when he started screaming at Pragyan Ojha from the striker's end. Asked if he was nervous when Ojha was batting, he said: "I tried to face as many deliveries as possible from Mitchell Johnson and the rest, but such things happen in cricket. Ojha did a great job by hanging around.
The stylish player hailed the win as a team effort. "It is a team effort, and not any individual's win. This victory is dedicated to the entire team," he concluded.
Meanwhile, Ojha said he would never forget this knock. "I was very nervous, kept fumbling while running between the wickets. But, Laxmanbhai told me to relax, take it easy and just play my natural game. He guided me through every delivery, every over and moment. I will never forget this help. It is a wonderful feeling."
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