Published By: Sanchari Das

BGT: India in Australia’s Five Iconic Venues - A Cauldron of Historic Victories & Mortified Defeats

Explore the highs and lows of team India’s journey across Australia’s most iconic Test venues, from their first win to unforgettable triumphs

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is back, and this time, it promises to be bigger than ever. India will play a historic five-match series in Australia for the first time under the BGT banner. Stakes are high, with the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) adding extra spice to the contest. For India, this series is not just about reclaiming glory; it’s a crucial battle to secure a spot in the WTC final.

Australia, the reigning WTC champions, lead the standings, closely followed by India. With both teams vying for a berth in the final, the upcoming series holds immense significance. India’s task is monumental—they need to win four out of five matches. The challenge intensifies as the series traverses Australia’s most iconic Test venues. Let’s revisit how Team India has fared at these legendary grounds.

Adelaide Oval: Where dreams began

Adelaide has been a defining ground for India in BGT history. India played their first BGT match in Australia here in 1999 but suffered a crushing defeat by 285 runs. It was a forgettable series as India were whitewashed 0-3. However, Adelaide later became a venue of redemption.

India registered their maiden BGT victory Down Under in December 2003, winning by four wickets. This win helped India draw the series 1-1. The 2018 triumph in Adelaide, by 31 runs, was equally iconic, setting the tone for India’s series win. Adelaide remains where India has scripted history with two wins in seven matches.

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Boxing Day glory

The iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has seen India rise from despair to dominance. India’s first BGT match at the MCG ended in a 180-run defeat in 1999. They lost four consecutive matches here, including the 2014 Boxing Day Test.

However, India turned the tide in 2018 and 2020, securing back-to-back wins. The 2018 Boxing Day victory laid the foundation for a 2-1 series win. In 2020, Ajinkya Rahane’s masterful century inspired another memorable triumph. These victories have transformed the MCG into a symbol of India’s resilience.

Sydney Cricket Ground: Yet to taste victory

Sydney remains the only venue where India has not won a BGT match. In seven encounters, India has faced three defeats and managed four draws. The biggest blow came in 2000, with a loss by an innings and 141 runs.

Despite the lack of wins, Sydney has witnessed some crucial draws. The stalemates in 2004, 2019, and 2021 played vital roles in India’s series outcomes. The January 2021 draw, featuring Hanuma Vihari and R. Ashwin’s heroic stand, was a testament to India’s fighting spirit.

Brisbane’s Gabba: Fortress half conquered

The Gabba has a mixed history for India, with one win, one loss, and one draw. The 2003 encounter ended in a draw, while the 2014 match saw India losing by four wickets.

But the Gabba’s story changed in January 2021. Rishabh Pant’s fearless 89 not out helped India chase down 328, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. This historic win secured a 2-1 series triumph, etching India’s name in Brisbane’s history books.

Perth: A tale of contrasts

India’s relationship with Perth has been tumultuous. Their first BGT match here in 2008 resulted in a stunning 72-run victory, marking a significant achievement. However, the subsequent matches brought heavy defeats.

India lost by an inning and 37 runs in 2012 and 146 runs in 2018. Despite these setbacks, the 2008 win remains a cherished memory, showcasing India’s ability to defy the odds in hostile conditions.