It was a fantastic win for India at Durban. After having lost the first Test at Centurion by an innings, India stuck to their task in the second and came back strongly to level the series. It's time for the team to start off in Cape Town from where they left it in Durban.

Laxman was once again the pivotal character in this win, as he has been for India over the years and especially in the last one year. He has done remarkably well in such tight and crucial situations, if one may recall India's recent wins in Sri Lanka and Mohali. His knock in the second innings at Durban made life difficult for Smith and company.

Bollinger backed for a successful return 

The return of Zaheer Khan definitely bolstered the bowling department of the team. The presence of the senior pro disciplined the Indian attack and he along with Bhajji put the Proteas in a tight corner. Sreesanth played an important role as he had done in 2006 at the Wanderers. He is developing into a fantastic Test bowler. The national selectors, team trainer, the bowling coach need to take special care about this boy and keep him match fit because for the next one year India will be playing away from home.

Personally, I am very happy for this win at Durban. I am elated not only because of the win but also for the progress of Indian cricket since 1996, when I made my debut for the country. I remember, when we toured South Africa in 1996-97, we were blown away at Durban. The 2010 win at Durban shows how Indian cricket has come of age subsequently. The wins at Adelaide in 2001, Headingley in 2002, Jo'burg in 2006, Nottingham and Perth in 2007, were signs of India's growth at the world stage. The win at Durban stamps India's authority and ratifies India's numero uno status.

More Columns

I strongly believe that the cricketers between the period of 1996 and 2010 will be overjoyed and proud beyond imagination after this win at Durban. It testifies to world cricket that Indian cricket is no more to be disregarded and we are no more to be considered a force only on home soil.

The Durban Test match has sent a strong message to the South African captain Graeme Smith. He has to realize that it is very important to keep one's mouth shut and let one's bat do the talking because this is such a game which sorts you out at the earliest.