The Indian cricket team scripted a new chapter in the history book of the gentlemen’s game by thumping South Africa by an innings and 137 runs in the second Test in Pune on Sunday. With this marvellous feat, Kohli & Co set up a World Record by extending their winning streak in the longest format at home.
This was India’s 11th consecutive Test series win at home which is the most by any side. Under Virat Kohli’s captaincy, India have won nine series, while the remaining two series wins were under former skipper MS Dhoni.
Back in 2012-2013 season, India lost a Test series at home against England. Their series of victory began with the Test rubber against West Indies, which also marked Sachin Tendulkar’s farewell.
Ahead of the Pune clash, India were tied with Australia at the top position for the most consecutive series wins at home. Former skippers Steve Waugh and Mark Taylor led the Aussies between November 1994 and November 2000 and the Australian team led by Ricky Ponting between July 2004 and November 2008 that had won 10 consecutive Tests at home.
After winning the 3-match series and breaking Australia's long-standing record, Indian skipper Virat Kohli said, “The mindset is always to help the team and in that process, the big scores come. I think the moment you start thinking about the team, all the pressure goes away. I am at that stage of my career where I am happy to play for my team.”
“The good thing is when we started [the World Test Championship campaign], we were at number 7. The only way was up. We are all lucky to have this group of players. It's amazing to see that hunger for all the guys to keep improving,” he added.