Sports Desk
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
5 January
Australia clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade, defeating India 3-1 in the five-match Test series. A dominant performance by Beau Webster (39) and Travis Head (34) sealed a comfortable six-wicket victory on a tricky Sydney pitch.
India, missing Jasprit Bumrah’s services due to injury, struggled to defend a modest 162-run target on Day 3. Mohammed Siraj gave India hope by dismissing Usman Khawaja after lunch, but Australia’s batters remained composed.
Earlier, Prasidh Krishna claimed three key wickets in the first innings, helping India bowl Australia out for 181. However, the Indian batting faltered on Day 3, collapsing for 157. Scott Boland was the star for Australia, securing a remarkable 10-wicket haul for the match.
The SCG pitch posed a tough challenge throughout the series finale, favoring seamers with unpredictable bounce and movement. India’s slim four-run lead after the second innings was quickly overshadowed as their lower-order batters, including Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, failed to deliver.
Despite their spirited bowling efforts, India was outplayed in crucial moments. Australia, led by Pat Cummins, proved to be the superior side, dominating key phases of the series. The victory also ensured Australia’s spot in the World Test Championship final against South Africa.
India’s chances of making the WTC final are now over. While the team showed glimpses of resilience, Bumrah’s absence and inconsistent performances ultimately cost them. Australia, with a well-rounded squad and key contributions across the series, emerged deserved winners of a thrilling campaign.
The series was marked by exciting contests, unpredictable pitches, and standout individual performances. However, the final match highlighted Australia’s composure under pressure and India’s struggle to find momentum in critical situations.