Ganguly infused the squad with a fierce fighting spirit and confidence that became a defining characteristic of the Indian team during his era.

When you ask a passionate Indian cricket fan about a batsman who embodies swashbuckling flair but also charisma and unwavering courage, Sourav Ganguly, affectionately known as Dada, inevitably comes to mind.

His legacy as one of India's finest batters and captains is often celebrated, even though some may point out that Ganguly's captaincy tenure yielded only one ICC title, sharing the 2002 Champions Trophy with Sri Lanka. What made his leadership stint so unforgettable?

Ganguly infused the squad with a fierce fighting spirit and confidence that became a defining characteristic of the Indian team during his era. Across a storied career spanning 311 ODIs and 113 Tests, he amassed 11,363 and 7,212 runs, respectively, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.

Today, as the seasoned batsman celebrates his 52nd birthday, let's reminisce about his top four innings that have captivated cricket enthusiasts worldwide.

239 vs. Pakistan, 2007

In the final match of a tense three-match Test series against arch-rivals Pakistan, India struggled at 44/2, cautiously attempting to gain control of the game. Here, the former Indian captain delivered one of his most sublime batting performances.

Ganguly showcased his batting prowess with a monumental innings of 239 runs, embellished with 30 boundaries and two towering sixes. His dominance continued into the second innings, where he narrowly missed out on another century, falling just nine runs short. Despite Ganguly's heroics, the match ended prematurely due to weather conditions, with India tantalizingly close to victory, needing only three wickets. This innings marked Ganguly's highest score in Test cricket.

Credit: Quora

Sourav Ganguly celebrates his century

183 vs. Sri Lanka, 1999

In arguably his career-defining innings, Ganguly produced a masterclass during the 1999 World Cup clash against Sri Lanka. After being put into bat, India faced an early setback, losing their first wicket with just six runs on the board. However, what followed was sheer dominance from Ganguly and Rahul Dravid.

Together, they forged a monumental partnership of 318 runs for the second wicket, dismantling the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Ganguly's innings were spectacular, as he blazed his way to 183 runs, adorned with 17 boundaries and seven towering sixes. India amassed a formidable total of 373/6, ultimately securing a commanding victory by 157 runs.

Ganguly's innings of 183 not only propelled India to victory but also etched his name in the annals of World Cup history, standing as the highest individual score by an Indian batsman in the prestigious tournament to this day.

153 vs. New Zealand, 1999

In the third ODI of the series between India and New Zealand, the pitch conditions heavily favoured the bowlers due to its dampness. In a gritty display of batting prowess, Ganguly played a heroic innings, remaining unbeaten on 153 runs. His resilient effort guided India to a competitive total of 261 runs. 

Thanks to Ganguly's exceptional innings, India managed to restrict New Zealand and clinch the series 2-1, sealing victory in a hard-fought contest. Ganguly's unbeaten 153 underscored his skill and temperament and his ability to thrive under challenging conditions, solidifying his reputation as a formidable cricketer and leader for India.

Credit: ESPN Cricinfo

Sourav Ganguly in action

144 vs. Australia, 2003

Ganguly's innings in that Test match against Australia were among his greatest away-from-home knocks, and he scored the fourth-highest score of his Test career. After Australia posted 323 in their first innings, India found themselves in a precarious position at 62/3 when Ganguly strode out to the middle.

The Indian captain played a magnificent innings, crafting a resilient 144 runs from 196 balls. His partnership with VVS Laxman, worth 146 runs, proved crucial as India eventually reached 409. Despite their efforts, the match concluded in a draw, but Ganguly's stellar batting under pressure showcased his skill and leadership on the international stage.