India's ex-captain Rahul Dravid had played a huge role in India's historic win against Australia at Eden Gardens in 2001. He, along with VVS Laxman, gave India the stability they needed in the match after early blows. The hosts were put back by the Aussies as they conceded a follow-on. 

But Laxman and Dravid had stitched up a partnership of 331 runs in second innings. They batted out the whole day to change the scenario of the match completely.

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Rahul scored 180, and Laxman was dismissed on 281 to blow off the visitors with their durability in the middle. 

Recalling the historic win, Dravid didn't forget to mention the hidden factor which helped them turn the tables. He believes the atmosphere of the stadium helped them a lot.

“The atmosphere on the last day, after tea, the time when we were trying to take wickets,” Dravid said on the show ”Kolkata 2001 - Dravid & Laxman Special. 

“Harbhajan Singh was bowling and wickets were falling. The support from the crowd was incredible. The crowd at Eden Gardens helped us win the 2001 Kolkata Test. That support, encouragement, and cheer after every ball, I remember it till now and I can still feel that.”

Dravid is happy the crowd stood by the team. He calls it one of the most exceptional moments in his career. 

“There are not many things I remember about my career, but one of the occasions was after tea, the atmosphere and intensity at the ground, that’s why it’s great to see a full stadium here at Eden Gardens,” Dravid said.

“That’s an experience every cricketer must experience. Playing in front of a packed stadium and that kind of energy. These are the kind of the things I remember, the energy and vibe in the dressing room, the vibe on the ground, that’s something that stays with you. As a former cricketer, you wish that the next generation gets to experience the things we experienced and even more.”