Ajinkya Rahane, one of Indian cricket's most dependable and elegant batters, leaves behind a legacy defined by composure under extreme pressure. Known as the ultimate crisis manager, Rahane built a career marked by unforgettable performances, particularly in grueling overseas Test conditions.
From his masterly century at Lord's in 2014 on a green top to his gritty knocks in Wellington and Johannesburg, Rahane stood tall whenever Team India found itself in deep trouble.
However, among all his finest displays, none shines brighter than his monumental performance during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia — a series that cemented his status in Test cricket folklore.
Rahane's 112 at MCG: The Knock That Revived India
After India were bowled out for their lowest Test score of 36 all out in the first Test in Adelaide, the team was in complete disarray. Captain Virat Kohli left for paternity leave, and Rahane took over the captaincy for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Rahane came in at 61 for 2, and soon saw the scorecard reading 64 for 3. He played some delightful off-drives and pulls, anchoring the innings with a masterful 112 off 223 balls.
His magnificent 112 at the MCG wasn't just a century — it was the knock that revived Indian cricket after its darkest Test day, as noted by Instagram posts celebrating the innings.
How Rahane's Captaincy and Knock Turned the Series
Rahane's leadership was equally impressive. He marshaled his bowlers brilliantly, and India went on to win the match by 8 wickets, leveling the series 1-1.
As Sony Sports Network described it, this was "Down Underdogs - India's Greatest Comeback." The Boxing Day Test was led by Rahane, and his captaincy was incredible.
Rahane himself said, "I love challenges," as noted by Star Sports India when revisiting the iconic 112 in the toughest rivalry.
"His magnificent 112 at the MCG wasn't just a century—it was the knock that revived Indian cricket after its darkest Test day." — Instagram
Our Take: Why This Knock Stands Above the Rest
In our view, Rahane's 112 at the MCG is his greatest Test knock because of the context. It came after India's lowest-ever Test score of 36 all out. The team was without its regular captain. The pressure was immense — both from the Australian crowd and from the weight of expectations back home.
Rahane did not just score runs. He showed what leadership looks like when everything falls apart. He absorbed pressure, played with composure, and gave India a platform to win. That innings did not just win a match — it changed the momentum of the entire series, which India went on to win 2-1.
For any cricket fan, this knock is a lesson in resilience. It is a reminder that the greatest performances often come in the toughest moments.
