Grit, courage, determination -- adjectives run out to describe Team India's sensational performance to eke out a draw in the Sydney Test against Australia. There were accusations of racial abuse, an injury crisis before and during the match, but that didn't deter the Indian team from going toe to toe against the hosts, who were favourites to win after setting a 407-run target. Rishabh Pant, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin were the heroes for India on a gripping final day of the Test. Social media was abuzz with former and current cricketers, and fans as well saluting the team for digging in, when most expected them to fold.
India started Day 5 at 98 for two, needing 309 runs to win. Not many thought India would survive the day, let alone have a shot of winning the game. And it seemed that prediction would come true with stand-in skipper Ajinkya Rahane falling early to Nathan Lyon.
Rishabh Pant, who was hit on the elbow in the first innings and didn't keep wickets during Australia's innings, was promoted -- walking out to bat instead of Hanuma Vihari.
Pant started slowly scoring only 5 off 30-odd balls. However, what followed was nothing short of incredible. Pant cut loose, taking a special liking to the off-spin of Lyon. The left-hander went from strength to strength with Pujara giving him able support from the other end.
By the time Lunch was taken, India needed only 201 runs, more than a fair chance of winning the Test. Just when it seemed Pant would reach his hundred and India would take control of the match, he fell three short of it, trying to take on Lyon again.
Pujara battled on but was castled by a brilliant delivery from Josh Hazlewood. India's hopes faded with Pujara gone and Vihari in massive discomfort after suffering a hamstring injury.
India's options were limited after Ravindra Jadeja's fractured thumb. So, out strode Ravichandran Ashwin, and along with Vihari began a 'blockathon' that would will down in history for its pure grit and determination.
The duo played 258 balls to defy the Australians and take India to a memorable draw.