Published By: Sayan Guha

Boxing Day Test: When India First Conquered the MCG! A Historic Victory That Shaped the Future

Credit: ESPNcricinfo

The tone is set, the stakes are high, and the Boxing Day Test is almost here. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy poised 1-1, the third Test at the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) promises to be a watershed moment in the India-Australia cricket rivalry. December 26th is more than simply another day on the calendar; it's an invitation to see history unfold.

India's previous victories at the MCG, particularly memorable triumphs in 2018 and 2020, have boosted fan confidence. But what if we told you that India's love affair with the MCG started far before these modern-day successes? Let's go back to the last few days of 1977, when India won their maiden Test at the MCG, writing a narrative of tenacity, redemption, and unwavering spirit.

The context: A series hanging by a thread

It was December 1977, and India was up against not just the Australian squad but also the shadow of poor performances down under. The third Test of the series proved significant. Australia won the first Test, and the second finished in a draw. For India, winning in Melbourne was not just an option but a must.

The Australians were formidable at home. India, headed by the renowned Bishan Singh Bedi, had to overcome both the resistance and their own concerns.

The wobble before the wonder

The contest started with anxiety on full show. India's top order struggled early in the first innings. Sunil Gavaskar and Chetan Chauhan both fell for ducks, leaving the side behind 0-2. However, as the phrase goes, when the hour comes, so do the men.

Mohinder Amarnath and Gundappa Viswanath kept the ship steady with a formidable pairing. Amarnath's 72 and Viswanath's 59 were innings based on patience and accuracy. The lower order pitched in, with Ashok Mankad scoring a crucial 44. Despite a collapse at the finish, India managed 256, which was competitive but far from dominant.

Chandra spins a web

The Australian response was feeble at first. Karsan Ghavri seized the lead early on, followed by Bhagwath Chandrasekhar. Chandra's leg-spin enthralled the Australians as the ball turned and bounced on a favourable ground. He took six wickets, reducing Australia to 213. The hosts' only notable innings were those of Gary Cosier (67) and Craig Serjeant (85).

India now held a slight lead, but the struggle was far from finished.

 

Sunil Gavaskar on his way toa brilliant century // Picture Courtesy – IndiaNetzone

Gavaskar's redemption

Sunil Gavaskar redeemed himself in the second innings with outstanding perseverance. His 118 was the foundation of India's total of 343. Gavaskar's innings blended skill, temperament, and timing, demonstrating why he was one of the best openers of his time.

Gundappa Viswanath and Mohinder Amarnath scored key runs, ensuring Australia faced a challenging target of 387.

Chandra strikes again

The aim proved to be too much for Australia. Chandra once again led the way, claiming six more wickets in the second innings. Bishan Bedi offered superb support, grabbing three scalps. The Australians were swept out for 164, giving India a stunning 222-run win.

 

Chandrasekhar Bhagwat played a crucial role with the ball to seal the match for India // Picture Courtesy – CricketMash

Why it mattered

This victory marked a sea change for Indian cricket. The win in Melbourne gave the squad confidence that they could win in any conditions. It was also a credit to the team effort, with contributions from both batters and bowlers.

This match may have been the apex of Chandrasekhar's remarkable career. His match numbers of 12-104 remain among the best performances by an Indian bowler abroad.