Adam Gilchrist considers the 2001 Kolkata Test against India as the greatest match he ever played in, despite securing a King Pair in a dramatic loss that ended Australia’s 16-match winning streak. The thrilling second Test at Eden Gardens, regarded as one of the finest in cricket history, saw momentum swing wildly and emotions run high as legends on both sides delivered exceptional performances.

While speaking, Gilchrist recalled the match’s intensity, saying, “It was phenomenal, fascinating… the ups, the downs. We felt we had not just closed out that Test but the series in India, which was something we desperately wanted.” However, in a single day, everything changed. Despite his personal disappointment, being the first Australian to be dismissed first ball in both innings of a Test, Gilchrist acknowledged it was a privilege to be part of such a unique encounter.

At the time, Australia, led by Steve Waugh, was the best team in the world, having won 16 consecutive matches. Their streak included victories in Zimbabwe, Pakistan, New Zealand, and a dominant series win over West Indies. But defeating India on their home soil was the “Final Frontier” Australia sought to conquer, making the loss in Kolkata even more significant.