Published By: Sanchari Das

Boxing Day Test: Check Out THESE Epic Indian Pairings That Tamed the Aussies at Melbourne

As the 2024 Boxing Day Test approaches, fans will hope for another memorable chapter in India's MCG story

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is always a cricketing spectacle. With the series tied at 1-1, the Boxing Day Test of 2024 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is pivotal. Both teams are vying for a decisive advantage before the final Test in Sydney, making this encounter crucial for momentum heading into the World Test Championship final.

India's history at the MCG holds a mix of challenges and triumphs. While Australia traditionally dominated early Boxing Day Tests, India has shifted the narrative, winning in 2018 and 2020. These victories, alongside iconic partnerships, highlight India's ability to tackle Australia's fiery bowling at this historic venue.

Here are four remarkable Indian partnerships that left a lasting impact at the MCG.

Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane — 262 runs (2014)

During the 2014 series, Kohli and Rahane delivered a masterclass in resilience. With India struggling at 147/3, trailing Australia's imposing total by 383 runs, the duo stood tall. The Australian pacers, led by Mitchell Johnson, tried to rattle them with fiery spells and verbal exchanges. Instead, they ignited a counter-attack.

Virat Kohli's fiery 169 off 272 balls, punctuated by an intense clash with Johnson, showcased his unyielding determination. Ajinkya Rahane complemented him with a scintillating 147 off just 171 deliveries. Together, they amassed a mammoth 262-run partnership, steering India to 465 and earning a hard-fought draw. This partnership marked India's first drawn Test in Australia in six years, a testament to their grit.

Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli — 170 runs (2018)

In the 2018 Boxing Day Test, Cheteshwar Pujara's textbook technique and Kohli's aggression combined to torment the Australian bowlers. India, resuming at 215/2 on Day 2, consolidated their position through this 170-run third-wicket stand. Pujara's marathon 106 off 319 balls anchored the innings, while Kohli's fluent 82 ensured steady scoring.

Pujara reached his 17th Test century just before lunch, underlining his importance as India's rock in testing conditions. Their partnership propelled India to a commanding total, enabling Jasprit Bumrah to unleash a six-wicket haul. India declared with a 398-run lead and bowled out Australia for 151, securing a decisive 137-run victory and taking a 2-1 series lead.

Sunil Gavaskar and Chetan Chauhan — 165 runs (1981)

The 1981 Melbourne Test featured one of India's most heroic fightbacks. Trailing by 182 runs in the second innings, openers Sunil Gavaskar and Chetan Chauhan stitched a vital 165-run stand. Facing relentless pressure, the duo showcased impeccable technique and unwavering focus.

While Gavaskar's composed 70 and Chauhan's gritty 85 fell short of centuries, their partnership gave India a crucial 143-run lead. This set the stage for a historic victory, as Australia crumbled for just 83 runs in their second innings. India's 59-run triumph remains one of their most incredible comebacks. Gundappa Viswanath's 144 in the match earned him the Player of the Match award.

Virender Sehwag and Aakash Chopra — 141 runs (2003)

India's 2003/04 tour of Australia is etched in history for its competitive spirit. In the third Test at the MCG, the contrasting styles of Virender Sehwag and Aakash Chopra baffled the Australian attack. After winning the toss, India's openers added 141 for the first wicket in spectacular fashion.

Sehwag's blistering 195 off 233 balls was a masterclass in aggressive batting, overshadowing Chopra's stoic 48 off 138 deliveries. Despite their stellar start, India faltered later, finishing with 366 in their first innings. Australia capitalised, securing a nine-wicket win to level the series. Yet, the opening partnership remains a testament to India's fighting spirit on foreign soil.