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On This Day, October 10: Yuvraj Singh returned to international cricket in 2013 with a statement performance, smashing an unbeaten 77 off just 35 balls to help India pull off a thrilling chase against Australia in Rajkot.

Australia had put 201/7 on the scoreboard, leaving India with a challenging target of 202. What followed was a high-scoring contest that looked increasingly difficult for the hosts as wickets fell during the chase. But Yuvraj, playing his first international match after a lengthy absence from the Indian side, had other plans.

Australia Set India a Target of 202

The only T20 International of Australia's 2013 tour of India was played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on October 10. After India elected to field, Australian opener Aaron Finch produced a powerful innings, scoring 89 off 52 deliveries with 14 fours and a six. Nic Maddinson added a quick 34 off 16 balls, helping Australia finish at 201/7 in their 20 overs.

Vinay Kumar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar picked up three wickets apiece, but Australia had still given India a target that demanded an aggressive response. With 202 runs required for victory, India needed to maintain a high scoring rate without losing too many wickets.

Yuvraj Singh Walked In Under Pressure

India's chase did not begin smoothly. Rohit Sharma fell early, and wickets continued to interrupt the innings as Australia looked to keep the pressure on. With the required rate climbing and the game still in the balance, Yuvraj Singh joined MS Dhoni to rebuild the chase while keeping India in contention.

Yuvraj wasted little time finding his rhythm. Known for his ability to clear the boundary with remarkable ease, the left-hander brought out his trademark shots, striking powerful sixes and finding gaps with crisp drives. His innings was not simply about big hitting; it was about taking control of a chase that could easily have slipped away from India.

77 Off 35 Balls Changed the Match

Yuvraj finished unbeaten on 77 from 35 deliveries, hitting eight fours and five sixes. At the other end, captain MS Dhoni provided valuable support as the pair added an unbeaten 102-run partnership off just 51 balls for the fifth wicket. Their stand transformed India's position and put the Australian bowlers under intense pressure.

India reached 202/4 in 19.4 overs, winning by six wickets with two balls to spare. Yuvraj was named Player of the Match, a fitting reward for an innings that combined power, timing and composure under pressure.

A Comeback to Remember

The significance of the knock went beyond the result. Yuvraj had returned to the international side after being away from the team, and expectations were high as he looked to re-establish himself. Rather than easing back into the format, he delivered an immediate reminder of what made him one of India's most dangerous limited-overs batters.

The Rajkot innings remains a memorable moment from October 10 in Indian cricket history. Australia had scored more than 200, but Yuvraj's explosive comeback, backed by Dhoni's calm presence, ensured India completed the chase with very little time to spare.

Match result: India 202/4 in 19.4 overs beat Australia 201/7 in 20 overs by six wickets.

Yuvraj Singh: 77* off 35 balls (8 fours, 5 sixes)

Player of the Match: Yuvraj Singh