Greatest Indian Test XI of the 21st century in Australia
Cricket is an inseparable part of peninsular India. The emotions that are attached to the game are unlike any sport that is played in the country. It's a heartbeat of this nation and like a macroscopic element which connects every node of this nation.
Cricket is the insuperable binding agent to this vastly diverse country, and people who form the team that does this act are celebrated and worshipped at some point. Over the last two decades, Indian test cricket has seen many highs than lows. The players who have been responsible for the flourishment of the game are widely revered.
Since the game's inception, there have been many rivalries but none like India and Australia. Two countries pole apart in traditions but breathe one sport, that is cricket. Over the course of time, there have been many battles that have become legends of their own.
Though India has completed well in Australia over the years it is sad to say but has never been on winning side of the test series.
With a big test series ahead of the Indian team in Australia, let us look at their best 21st-century test XI down under based on their performances.
#1 Virender Sehwag
It has been established that Indian openers are just a formality in overseas conditions and as a matter of fact it has been proven many times. From the early 2000s till 2018, India hasn't been able to find a proper opening pair in Tests. Every time they travel to SENA countries they have a new opening pair and it has cost the team several matches overseas.
But, despite many struggles, Indian team found someone who performed well in overseas conditions especially in Australia. Virender Sehwag was a completely different batsman with his unique technique, attitude, temperament and style. But it was effective.
Sehwag, whose technique was doubted by many pundits because of his very nature of play. But he answered his critics with his bat and he went onto to score 1031 runs at an impressive average of 46.86. He scored two tons and 5 half-centuries which included some mind-blowing knocks like the one at MCG where he blasted Aussie attack before getting out for 195! His Adelaide century contrasting to his batting style is much remembered.