Cricket has always been a game of partnerships, where the synergy between batsmen is crucial in constructing substantial innings. Over the years, Indian cricketers have displayed their prowess on the international stage, and their performances in South Africa stand out as a testament to their skill and resilience. In this article, we delve into the archives to explore the five highest Test partnerships by Indian batsmen in the challenging conditions of South Africa.
These remarkable stands not only showcased technical mastery but also demonstrated mental fortitude against world-class bowling attacks. From stabilizing innings after early collapses to putting India in commanding positions, these partnerships have left an indelible mark on cricketing history. Let’s take a closer look at these legendary collaborations that redefined India’s batting dominance in South African conditions.
Sachin Tendulkar & Mohammad Azharuddin – 222 at Cape Town (1997)
India went into the second Test in Cape Town in 1997 trailing 0-1. South Africa had posted 529 in their first innings. Allan Donald, Shaun Pollock, and others had India struggling at 58 for 5.
Mohammad Azharuddin joined captain Sachin Tendulkar and what followed was 40 overs of brilliance. Azharuddin dominated with 115 off just 110 balls, hitting 19 fours and a six. He reached his century in only 96 deliveries. Tendulkar contributed 169 off 254 balls, attacking the bowlers fearlessly.
Although India lost by 282 runs, the partnership prevented the embarrassment of a follow-on. Their 222-run stand remains the highest by an Asian pair at Newlands and across South Africa.
Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli – 222 at Johannesburg (2013)
After putting together an 89-run partnership in the first innings, Pujara and Kohli followed up with a massive 222-run stand in the second innings. This nearly took the game away from South Africa.
Indian fans were used to the legendary Rahul Dravid–Sachin Tendulkar partnership. Kohli and Pujara, stepping into their roles, rose to the occasion. The duo combined patience with aggression and solid technique, continuing India’s legacy of formidable batting partnerships.
Sachin Tendulkar & Virender Sehwag – 220 at Bloemfontein (2001)
When India toured South Africa in 2001, their away record was poor. They had only one win outside Asia in 41 Tests since 1986. At 68/4, India seemed in trouble against a strong bowling lineup of Shaun Pollock, Makhaya Ntini, and Nantie Hayward.
A 23-year-old debutant, Virender Sehwag, joined Tendulkar. Sehwag mixed aggression with restraint while Tendulkar batted fearlessly. Tendulkar scored 155 off 184 balls, guiding India through a critical phase. The partnership showcased India’s ability to fight back under pressure.
Gautam Gambhir & Sachin Tendulkar – 176 at Cape Town (2011)
In the deciding third Test of the 2011 series, India was under pressure after Jacques Kallis scored 161 to lift South Africa to 362 all out. India slumped to 28 for 2 shortly before tea.
Gautam Gambhir and Tendulkar then formed a vital third-wicket partnership of 114 in nearly three hours. Gambhir remained unbeaten on 65 despite three chances. Tendulkar, drawing on his vast experience, ended the day on 49. Their stand stabilized the innings and kept India in the contest, aiming for their first series win in South Africa.
Sachin Tendulkar & MS Dhoni – 172 at Centurion (2010)
India had collapsed for 136 in the first innings, with Morne Morkel taking five key wickets. South Africa declared at 620 runs, putting India under enormous pressure.
In the second innings, Tendulkar and captain MS Dhoni shared a crucial seventh-wicket partnership of 172 runs. Dhoni scored 90 before getting out, while Tendulkar batted with patience for 258 minutes and faced 197 balls to reach his century. Their resilience brought India back into the game and highlighted the importance of fighting partnerships.
However, India fought back valiantly in the second innings. A remarkable seventh-wicket partnership of 172 between Sachin Tendulkar and captain MS Dhoni brought India right back into contention. Dhoni fell first for a well-crafted 90, but Tendulkar continued his determined innings. After 258 minutes of patient and skillful batting, facing 197 deliveries, Tendulkar finally reached the three-figure mark, showcasing his trademark resilience under pressure.
