Border Gavaskar Trophy: A look back at the last two series between India and Australia

A look back at how the last two series have played out, ahead of the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy instalment.

Indian Test cricket team in a file photo. (Image credit: Twitter)
By Kshitij Ojha | Feb 4, 2023 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Australia and India first played Test cricket against each other in 1947, but the rivalry has grown into one of the game’s most prominent rivalries in the previous two decades. A look back at how the last two series have played out, ahead of the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy instalment.

Australia vs India 2020-21

This series, played in the midst of the Covid outbreak, became an instant classic, culminating in India’s biggest-ever victory, which ended Australia’s formidable run at the Gabba. India was swept out for 36 in the first Test in Adelaide, in what would be Kohli’s only match of the series. India stole everything from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood in an incredible session less than 24 hours after appearing to be in control with a comfortable lead. Bumrah shined at the MCG, and Ajinkya Rahane, filling in for Kohli as captain, produced the game-changing innings with a superb 112.

Australia should have won in Sydney, but dropped crucial catches on the final day as the injured combo of Ashwin and Hanuma Vihari put on a remarkable exhibition of persistence, aided by Pant’s half-century and Pujara’s tenacity. So it’s off to Brisbane for the showdown. To put it lightly, India’s injury list was growing, and their bowling attack was in disarray. Australia appeared to be in command until they weren’t. They were unable to build on Marnus Labuschagne’s century, and Shardul Thakur and Washington Sundar took advantage of the opportunity to resurrect India’s innings. Despite leaving 328 for the last day, Australia realised India had a chance when Shubman Gill and Pujara added 114 for the second wicket. Pant then put on a daring performance in what had effectively become a one-day run pursuit. As the shadows lengthened, a thumping drive down the turf secured a place in history. “What I’ve seen is incredible; the boys’ resolve and spirit are absolutely fantastic,” coach Ravi Shastri remarked.

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Australia vs India 2018-19

A watershed event for India. It began with a thrilling triumph in Adelaide and would have ended with a 3-1 scoreline if not for the weather in Sydney. The first match, in which the bowlers dominated, was a thrilling encounter won by Pujara’s brilliance. Australia’s batting lineup was a shambles – Warner and Smith were overseas serving their bans for the Newlands ball-tampering disaster – but the lower order pulled them within striking distance of a difficult objective.

In Perth, the home team fought back at the new Optus Stadium, on a diabolical surface that generated edge-of-the-seat action. Australia took an early lead with a stand of 112, but Kohli answered with a brilliant century. Despite Mohammed Shami’s best efforts, Khawaja’s breezy 72 kept India at bay, and India ultimately fell far short. However, India believed they were the superior team and demonstrated this in Melbourne. They ground their way to a good total, led by Pujara, while Australia wilted in the face of Jasprit Bumrah’s talent. In Sydney, they batted Tim Paine’s team into submission (Pujara 193, Rishabh Pant 159 not out) and were able to force the follow-on when Kuldeep Yadav grabbed five wickets before the rain hit.





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