India clinched the Commonwealth Bank Series title in 2008, led by MS Dhoni, defeating Australia and Sri Lanka. The win was significant as India had yet to advance beyond the first round in the previous year’s World Cup. The team secured a spot in the finals with victories over Sri Lanka and finished second in the points table. Despite being the underdogs, India won the best-of-three finals, with Sachin Tendulkar’s exceptional performances and Rohit Sharma’s contributions in the first final being notable. This listicle highlights three forgotten heroes who played a crucial role in India’s victory.
1) Sreesanth
During the 2008 CB series, Sreesanth emerged as a critical wicket-taker for India, taking nine wickets in six innings at an economy rate of 5.75. Although he did not play in the first final, he delivered a splendid spell in the second final, taking two crucial wickets of Michael Hussey and Mitchell Johnson. Sreesanth’s impressive performance helped India defend 258 runs in Brisbane and secure the Commonwealth Bank Series title.
2) Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh, the right-arm off-spinner, was a crucial member of the Indian team in the 2008 CB series, playing in all 10 matches. Despite picking up only eight wickets, Singh maintained an impressive economy rate of 4.25. In the first final of the series, Singh delivered his best performance, taking two crucial wickets of Matthew Hayden and Andrew Symonds while conceding only 38 runs in his 10 overs. His remarkable spell helped India secure a victory over Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
3) MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni, the captain of the Indian cricket team, played a vital role in their triumph in the 2008 Commonwealth Bank series. With an impressive aggregate of 347 runs in nine innings at an average of 69.4, Dhoni led the team from the front. Although he didn’t score any big knocks in the finals, his crucial 37-ball 36 in the second final helped India to set a competitive total of 258 runs against Australia. Dhoni also showcased his impressive wicket-keeping skills by taking 19 catches and executing two stumpings in the tournament.
