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'Planned To Smoke Cigars' - Hayden Recalls How Rahul Dravid Foiled Australia’s Party With Laxman

Matthew Hayden spills behind the scenes secrets of Laxman-Dravid's iconic partnership (X.com)Matthew Hayden spills behind the scenes secrets of Laxman-Dravid's iconic partnership (X.com)

Matthew Hayden, the former Australian opener, recently recalled a memorable moment in cricket history when India's legendary pair, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, produced a historic partnership that stunned the mighty Australians in 2001. The event took place during the famous Kolkata Test, part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, and remains one of the most remarkable comebacks in Test cricket.

During the recent CEAT Cricket Awards, Matthew Hayden took the stage to share a few words on Rahul Dravid's legendary career, as the latter was honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the event.

Hayden shared how the Australian team was in high spirits after enforcing the follow-on against India, having bowled them out for 171 in the first innings. 

Australia were dumfounded by VVS Laxman-Rahul Dravid's 376-Run Partnership

With a 274-run lead and the prospect of retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Australians were confident of a swift victory. Hayden and Michael Slater also planned to smoke Cuban cigars later in the night. 

“Sadly, from an Australian cricket point of view, it was the incredible partnership that he had up at Eden Gardens. There was nothing more sacred than that partnership with VVS Laxman. We walked onto the bus that day up in Kolkata and there was a fresh box of Cuban cigars Michael Slater said we’ll be smoking these at the end of the day and we’ll have retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy,” Hayden said.

However, what followed was an extraordinary turn of events, driven by a masterful 376-run partnership between Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman.

“Well, you had something to say about that batting all day with VVS Laxman in an extraordinary partnership. Under pressure, Australia put everything on the line against Rahul and did it with great grace, great composure, and always a great sense of fairness. In a game, which can tempt you to win at all costs Rahul Dravid won on the principles of cricket and the principles of life."

Laxman, promoted to number three, played the innings of his life, scoring a majestic 281. On the other hand, Dravid, batting at number six, provided solid support with a gritty 180. 

Together, they defied all odds, batting throughout Day 4 and setting a platform for an unlikely Indian resurgence.

Rahul Dravid Reunites With RR For IPL 2024

Meanwhile, after stepping down as the Indian senior cricket team head coach following the expiration of the contract, Rahul Dravid is set to return to IPL starting in 2025. 

Rahul Dravid formally announced his return to Rajasthan Royals as head coach for the upcoming season. He will replace Kumar Sangakkara ahead of the mega auctions.