Fans go wild as Australia demolishes India in Sydney Test to clinch a memorable 3-1 series victory | Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

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Australia registered a commanding 3-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series victory over India with a comprehensive six-wicket win in the final Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The triumph marked Australia’s first series victory in the BGT since 2015, breaking India’s streak of dominance in this prestigious rivalry. The hosts delivered an all-round masterclass, with a stellar batting performance and clinical bowling dismantling the visitors. India’s inability to withstand Australia’s relentless pressure highlighted the difference in execution and adaptability between the two sides

India’s first innings collapse under Scott Boland’s masterclass

India’s batting woes began early as they folded for a meager 185 in their first innings. Scott Boland led the Australian attack with figures of 4/31, extracting movement and bounce to trouble India’s batters throughout the innings. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins complemented him well, taking three and two wickets, respectively. The top order failed to provide a solid foundation, with Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Virat Kohli falling cheaply. Rishabh Pant offered resistance with a determined 40 off 98 balls, but the lack of partnerships meant India couldn’t capitalize on the few starts they had. The lower order crumbled under relentless pressure, leaving India on the back foot as Australia took control of the match early.

India gains slim lead with bowlers’ resilience

In reply, Australia managed 181, failing to gain a lead however still went closer thanks to a gritty knock from Beau Webster. Webster top-scored with a composed 57 off 105 balls, showcasing excellent technique against India’s disciplined bowling. Steve Smith added a crucial 33 to steady the innings, but the rest of the lineup faltered against Mohammed Siraj (3/51) and Prasidh Krishna (3/42), who bowled with precision and discipline. Nitish Kumar Reddy also chipped in with two wickets, applying pressure in the middle overs.

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Rishabh Pant’s heroics in vain as Boland shines again

India’s second innings unfolded in a similar fashion to the first, with the top order crumbling against Boland’s inspired spell. Boland’s remarkable 6/41 dismantled India’s batting lineup, as they were bowled out for just 157. While others struggled, Rishabh Pant counterattacked brilliantly, smashing a 33-ball 61 studded with six boundaries and four sixes. His audacious stroke play briefly raised hopes of a competitive total, but the lack of support from the other end meant India couldn’t set a challenging target. Australia’s bowlers, especially Boland, exploited the conditions perfectly, leaving India’s batters searching for answers.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy returns to Australia

Chasing 162, Australia began confidently, with Usman Khawaja leading the charge. Khawaja’s fluent 41 off 45 balls, along with Travis Head’s unbeaten 34, steadied the innings after early breakthroughs by Krishna. Despite Krishna’s impressive figures of 3/65, Australia’s aggressive approach kept them on track. Key partnerships at crucial moments helped the hosts navigate through pressure, and by the close of tea on Day 3, they secured victory with six wickets in hand. With momentum fully in their favor after Head was joined by Webster (39 not out), Australia wrapped up both the match and the series, leaving India to reflect on missed opportunities and recurring batting struggles.

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