VVS Laxman:
You simply cannot take Dravid’s name without mentioning VVS Laxman. Laxman was undoubtedly India’s best fourth innings batsman, something even the Australian team had to admit on several occasions. Laxman is remembered fondly by Indian fans for gifting the greatest innings by an Indian, his legendary 281 in Eden Gardens while following on against Australia in 2001.
However, the stylish wristy batsman’s career also ended not on a good note, to some extent abruptly, as his final Test match happens to be the same one that his friend and teammate Rahul Dravid played in. Laxman scored 18 in the first innings and a patient 35 in the second innings. He announced his retirement after a few months. Unfortunately, the greatest fourth innings batsman never got a chance to enjoy a farewell Test match for himself.