On December 27, 2020, Ajinkya Rahane's century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground marked a pivotal moment for Indian Test
cricket. This innings occurred after India's record-low score of 36 in Adelaide and Virat Kohli's departure, leaving the
team's confidence severely shaken. Facing Australia's strong bowling attack, Rahane's performance was crucial not just
for the match but for the entire series.
India began the second Test under immense pressure. After bowling Australia out for 195, India reached 36 for 1, with
memories of the Adelaide collapse still fresh. Rahane's approach was immediately assertive. He executed drives and pulls
with precision, demonstrating a clear strategy. A dropped catch at 78 proved significant, allowing Rahane to capitalize
and build a substantial innings.
Rahane formed key partnerships with Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja. While Vihari and Pant showed
promise, it was Jadeja's partnership that solidified India's position. Jadeja's disciplined approach allowed Rahane to
control the game's tempo. Their century stand broke Australia's resistance, leading India to 277 for 5 by the end of the
day. Rahane's century was vital in stabilizing the team, instilling much-needed belief.
Rahane was run out for 112 the following morning, but his contribution had already shifted the momentum. India was
eventually bowled out for 326, putting significant pressure on Australia. Australia struggled in their second innings,
scoring only 200, their slowest home Test innings in decades. India chased down the target of 70, securing a crucial
victory. Shubman Gill's aggressive batting and Rahane's winning runs symbolized India's renewed confidence.
This win at Melbourne did more than just level the series; it revitalized India's campaign, setting the stage for one of
their greatest Test series victories. Rahane's understated yet resilient innings underscored his importance to the team.
Notably, India has never lost a Test match when Rahane has scored a century, and he remains unbeaten as a Test captain.
Throughout his career, Rahane has excelled in overseas conditions, with a Test average away from home surpassing his
record in India. Despite his undeniable talent, his overall average of 38.46 does not fully reflect his capabilities,
particularly his ability to perform under pressure. His final Test appearance was in 2023 against the West Indies,
following a strong showing in the World Test Championship final. Although his later performances did not meet
expectations, Rahane's legacy remains one of resilience and understated leadership, qualities that statistics alone