In times of great turmoil, bleakness, endless dark, sometimes the people need a beacon of hope to cling to; a symbol for all that is good and right and just; a brilliant beam of colour in a bottomless sea of grey.

Most of the time we’re not fortunate enough to see that realised. But occasionally, ever once in a while, a person of immeasurable inner strength rises up above the pack and becomes the hero we so sorely need, even if it’s not the one we deserve.

Enter: This legend. For him, what began as a relaxing afternoon at the Sydney Cricket Ground watching Day 2 of the fourth and final test between Australia and India, ended with him rising to the occasion, thrusting his arm into the air and pulling down the dreams and adoration of a nation. And probably a year’s supply of KFC when Channel 9 inevitably recognises this Classic Catch for the absolute screamer that it is.

Is it too late to nominate for Australian of the Year? If not, I think we’ve got a new frontrunner.