The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has often been a stage where Indian cricket legends played their final Test matches, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the sport. As the latest edition of the prestigious series approaches, it’s worth revisiting the iconic careers of some Indian greats who chose this rivalry as the backdrop for their Test cricket swan song.
- Anil Kumble
India’s greatest Test bowler, Anil Kumble, retired during the 2008 series after the third Test in Delhi, which ended in a draw. Kumble, who finished his illustrious career with 619 Test wickets, handed over the captaincy to MS Dhoni for the final match in Nagpur. Under Dhoni’s leadership, India secured a 2-0 series victory.
- Sourav Ganguly
Sourav Ganguly, affectionately known as “Dada,” played his last Test in Nagpur during the same 2008 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ganguly scored a commendable 85 in his final match but ended his career with a duck in the second innings. He retired with 7,212 runs in 113 Tests, including 16 centuries, leaving a legacy of resilience and leadership.
- Rahul Dravid
The “Wall” of Indian cricket, Rahul Dravid, retired after the 2011-12 series in Australia. His final Test was in Adelaide, where India faced a 4-0 series defeat. Dravid concluded his career with a monumental tally of 13,288 runs in 164 Tests at an average of 52.31, including 36 centuries. His consistency and technique remain unmatched in the history of Indian cricket.
- VVS Laxman
Another key figure in Indian cricket, VVS Laxman, ended his Test career during the Adelaide Test in 2012. Known for his elegant batting and his unforgettable innings in Kolkata during the 2001 series, Laxman scored 18 and 35 in his final Test. He retired with 8,781 runs in 134 matches, featuring 17 centuries.
- Virender Sehwag
The fearless opener Virender Sehwag played his last Test in Hyderabad during the 2013 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite scoring only six runs in his final innings, Sehwag’s aggressive batting style and two triple centuries remain legendary. He finished his career with 8,586 runs in 104 Tests, redefining how opening batting was perceived in Indian cricket.
- MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni surprised the cricketing world when he announced his retirement from Test cricket during the 2014 series in Australia, following the Melbourne Test. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp tactical mind, Dhoni retired with 4,876 runs in 90 Tests, including six centuries. His sudden decision left fans and analysts in shock, marking the end of an era for Indian cricket.
A New Chapter Awaits
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off on November 22 in Perth, the current Indian team faces immense pressure. With Australia leading the World Test Championship rankings, India must deliver stellar performances to secure a spot in the WTC final. For veterans like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, this could potentially be their last Test series against Australia.
The series not only promises riveting cricket but also serves as a reminder of the legends who left their mark on this storied rivalry.
