Memorable Border-Gavaskar Duels in India
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is one of the most intense and fiercely contested rivalries in cricket. Named after two cricketing legends, Allan Border of Australia and Sunil Gavaskar of India, this series has produced countless unforgettable moments and thrilling matches. Over the years, the BGT has not only showcased world-class cricket but also tested the nerves, patience, and skills of the players involved. As we look forward to another exciting series, here are five memorable duels played in India that have left a lasting impact on cricket fans.
India vs Australia, Bengaluru 2017
The 2017 Test in Bengaluru is often remembered for the dominance of spinners on both sides. India, after opting to bat, struggled as Nathan Lyon took eight wickets to bundle them out for a modest score. In reply, Australia managed 276, thanks to Ravindra Jadeja’s six-wicket haul. The pitch turned treacherous as the match progressed, and India set a target of 188 runs for Australia. Ravichandran Ashwin spun a web around the Aussies, taking six wickets to dismiss them for just 112 runs, securing a 75-run victory for India. This win played a crucial role in India clinching the series 2-1.
India vs Australia, Mohali 2010
The Mohali Test in 2010 was a testament to VVS Laxman’s resilience and determination. Chasing 216, India was in dire straits at 124/8. With an injured Laxman at one end and tailender Ishant Sharma at the other, the match seemed all but lost. However, the duo stitched an invaluable 81-run partnership for the ninth wicket. Ishant’s defiance ended with India needing just 11 more runs. Pragyan Ojha, the last man in, managed to support Laxman, who heroically guided India to a memorable victory with just one wicket remaining. Laxman’s joy was evident as he celebrated with his teammates, knowing they had pulled off an improbable win.
India vs Australia, Nagpur 2008
In the final Test of the 2008-09 series, India entered Nagpur with a 1-0 lead. Batting first, India posted 441 runs, anchored by Sachin Tendulkar’s century. Australia responded with 355, with Harbhajan Singh leading the Indian bowling attack. India’s second innings saw them set a daunting target of 381 runs. Australia faltered in their chase, managing only 209 runs, giving India a convincing 172-run victory. This win not only sealed the series 2-0 for India but also marked the emergence of a confident and formidable Indian team.
India vs Australia, Nagpur 2004
The 2004 series in India saw Australia ending a 35-year wait for a Test series win on Indian soil. In the Nagpur Test, Australia dominated from the start, posting 398 in their first innings, with Damien Martyn scoring a century. India struggled in response, managing just 185 runs. Australia then declared their second innings at 329/5, setting India a near-impossible target of 542 runs. The Indian batting crumbled under pressure, folding for 200 runs, handing Australia a massive 342-run victory and the series win.
India vs Australia, Kolkata 2001
The Kolkata Test in 2001 is often hailed as one of the greatest comebacks in cricket history. After being asked to follow on, India was staring down the barrel, trailing by 274 runs. However, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid put together a remarkable 376-run partnership for the fifth wicket, with Laxman scoring 281 and Dravid contributing 180. India set Australia a target of 384, and Harbhajan Singh, who had already taken seven wickets in the first innings, continued his brilliance by taking six more wickets. Australia was bowled out for 212, and India registered a historic 171-run victory. This match is still celebrated as a symbol of India’s newfound resilience and determination against a dominant Australian side.
These matches are just a glimpse of the intensity and excitement that the Border-Gavaskar Trophy brings. As the upcoming series looms, fans can only hope for more such memorable encounters between these two cricketing giants.