As the countdown to the next Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins, the memories of 2020-21 continue to inspire
The countdown is on for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting November 22. India will once again face Australia in a fierce contest of five Tests. The last four series have seen India dominate, with two memorable victories on Australian soil. While the 2018-19 series was historic as India’s first Test series win in Australia, the 2020-21 edition is unforgettable. India, facing a 1-0 deficit after a humiliating collapse in the first Test, fought back to win the series 2-1. The resilience shown by the Indian team is etched in cricket history.
India’s campaign started disastrously in Adelaide, where they played a day-night Test match. The Indian team was bowled out for their lowest Test total of just 36 runs. Australia quickly chased the target in 21 overs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. Losing the first Test and facing injuries to key players, India’s prospects looked dim. The absence of Virat Kohli, who returned home for the birth of his child, added to the challenges. However, India regrouped and headed to Melbourne, determined to bounce back from this shocking defeat.
The Boxing Day Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground saw a rejuvenated Indian team led by stand-in captain Ajinkya Rahane. His century laid the foundation for a remarkable eight-wicket win, levelling the series 1-1. Rahane’s calm and composed leadership inspired the team as they battled both injuries and a strong Australian side. The victory at MCG was a turning point. India’s bowlers, including debutant Mohammed Siraj, stepped up without seasoned players by taking five wickets from two innings. The triumph brought a renewed sense of belief, setting the stage for the crucial third Test in Sydney.
The third Test in Sydney was a testament to India’s grit and determination. With key players injured, including Ravindra Jadeja and Hanuma Vihari, India’s batting line-up faced a tough challenge. Despite this, the team held on to secure an epic draw. Vihari (23), battling a torn hamstring, and Ashwin (39), with a sore back, batted out more than 40 overs on the final day. Their heroic partnership defied Australia’s bowling attack, ensuring the series remained tied. This draw was as good as a win for India, showcasing their incredible fighting spirit.
The final Test at The Gabba, Brisbane, was the decider. Australia had not lost at this venue in 32 years. But this depleted Indian side, without stars like Bumrah, Shami, and Jadeja, pulled off a historic win. Chasing 329 in the fourth innings, young guns like Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Washington Sundar took charge. Pant’s unbeaten 89 guided India to a sensational three-wicket victory. This win not only clinched the series 2-1 but also broke Australia’s unbeaten streak at The Gabba. It was a moment of triumph and jubilation for Indian cricket.
Injuries to Indian players:
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) January 12, 2021
Ishant: Side strain (IPL 2020)
Bhuvneshwar: Hip injury (IPL 2020)
Shami: Right wrist fracture in Adelaide
Umesh: Calf at MCG
Rahul: wrist in Melbourne (nets)
Jadeja: dislocated left thumb at SCG
Vihari: hamstring at SCG
Bumrah: Abdominal strain
India’s injury list during the 2020-21 series was extensive. Senior players like Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Mohammed Shami were ruled out due to injuries. Ravindra Jadeja, Umesh Yadav, and KL Rahul also suffered setbacks, leaving the team without several first-choice players. Despite these challenges, India’s bench strength shone through. Debutants like T Natarajan, who took three wickets, and Shardul Thakur, who took seven wickets and scored 69 runs, stepped up when it mattered most. Heroes were made as the reserve players delivered match-winning performances, proving that this victory was a complete team effort.
