3 Indian captains to win Test series in SENA countries in the 21st century

MS Dhoni (in New Zealand, 2009)

Considered as the golden era of Indian cricket, the formidable batting line-up consisting of Sehwag, Gambhir, Dravid, Sachin, VVS Laxman and Dhoni was a nightmare for most oppositions. India were in a rampaging form, in all forms of the game during the period. They went into the series with a 4-1 victory in the ODIs against the home side and were high on confidence.

New Zealand wanted to greet the visitors with a green track, something on which the Indians did have a few weaknesses. However, the move backfired as the hosts were down to 61/6 in the very first session of the series. Rearguard action from Ryder and Vettori saw NZ finish at 279. India replied with a mammoth 520, courtesy a superb ton by Sachin. Harbhajan's six wickets in the second innings ensured India needed just 39 runs to win, which India did with 10 wickets in hand.

The second Test saw a game-changing partnership between Ross Taylor (151) and Ryder (201) as NZ posted 619/9. India, without their regular skipper, managed 305 and were asked to follow-on. The second essay showed the character of the Indian batsmen, as they managed to grind out more than two complete days of play, scoring 476 for the loss of four wickets. A gritty knock from Gambhir, one of his best till date, along with the blockathon by Dravid and a late surge by Laxman ensured India maintained the 1-0 lead.

The third Test saw India post a score of 379, with handy contributions from most batsmen and more than useful knocks from the tail-enders. In reply, NZ could manage 197, courtesy a fifer from Zaheer. Another classy hundred from Gambhir helped India post 434/7 and NZ played for a draw. Despite a gutsy bowling performance, the match ended in a draw with NZ at 281/8, as rain halted India's march to victory.

The 1-0 victory was the first series victory for India in New Zealand after 39 years.