When India went to South Africa in late 2006, they were not expected to make too many waves. It seemed to be going that way too as they were thrashed 4-0 in the ODIs.
AFP
When the Tests started, it was expected ?that things would go the same way once again.
However, what transpired over the four days of the first Test in Johannesburg proved to be a contrast to expectations.
AFP
December 18, 2006 proved to be the last day of the Test. After bowling out South Africa for 84 in their first innings, India had them reeling at 163/5 chasing a target of 401 at the end of Day 3.
No miracle was to take place for the Proteas as Zaheer Khan, Sreesanth and Anil Kumble took 3 wickets each and scripted a 123-run win for the visitors. Rahul Dravid had done what no Indian skipper had before, lead a team to victory on South African soil.
Sreesanth had earlier taken 5 wickets in the first innings and Sourav Ganguly, who was making his comeback made 51 when India batted on Day 1.
Sadly, India could not usew the series lead to their advantage as they lose 2-1. But on that day, it was a party in the dressing room as they had pulled one over South Africa on their 4th tour of the country.