5 instances when India's lower order rescued the team

#2 Against Australia in Ranchi (2017)

Saha joined hands with Cheteshwar Pujara to send Australia on a leather hunt

Steven Smith and Glenn Maxwell hit centuries as Australia posted 451 runs in the first innings after winning the toss. The opening duo Lokesh Rahul and Murali Vijay scored half-centuries to propel India to a solid start. Pat Cummins brought Australia back into the game by picking four wickets and reducing India to 328/6. The deficit was still 123 when Saha joined Cheteshwar Pujara who had already reached his century.

Pujara and Saha batted cautiously to ensure that India reached a position of strength. During the course of his patient knock of 202, Pujara faced 525 deliveries and broke Rahul Dravid’s record of most balls faced by an Indian batsman in a Test innings.

Saha also contributed immensely by getting his highest Test score of 117. The duo added 199 runs for the seventh wicket to take India to the driver’s seat. After their departure, Jadeja scored an attacking half century to help set up a declaration. Australia lost four quick wickets in the second innings. However, the dogged defensive batting of Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb enabled the visitors to save the match.

First Innings - From 328/6 to 603/9 declared

Percent of runs scored by the lower order - 45.61