Australia created history at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) by winning the Boxing Day Test match against India for the first time in 12 years. This significant victory not only marked a memorable achievement for the Australian team but also put them 2-1 ahead in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The win ended a long-standing drought and revived Australian hopes of reclaiming the prestigious trophy.
The match concluded on the fifth day with Australia securing a dominant 184-run victory. India, set a challenging target of 339 runs in the fourth innings, was bowled out for 154, falling short despite a valiant effort. Australia’s bowlers dominated the final session, claiming seven Indian wickets for just 34 runs. The final breakthrough came when Nathan Lyon dismissed Mohammed Shami, sending the Australian team and fans into wild celebrations.
Pat Cummins, the Australian captain, was the standout performer and deservedly earned the Player of the Match award. Cummins played a crucial role in the second innings, taking 3 wickets for 28 runs, including the pivotal dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant. His outstanding leadership and bowling were key to Australia’s success in this historic match. His performance with the ball, combined with important lower-order runs, ensured Australia maintained control throughout the game.
Cummins’ tactical decisions also played a vital role in the outcome. One of the turning points of the match was his decision to delay the declaration of Australia’s second innings, setting a challenging target for India. This strategy paid off, as it gave the Indian batsmen little time to recover from the mounting pressure.
Australia’s victory was a collective effort, with contributions from several players. Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, and Lyon all played important roles in applying pressure and taking wickets throughout the match. Lyon, in particular, delivered the final blow by dismissing Shami, sealing the historic win.
The victory is significant not only because of the 12-year gap but also as it demonstrates Australia’s resurgence in Test cricket. With this win, Australia is on the brink of reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, and the final Test in Sydney will be a crucial decider.