India has had a remarkable journey in Test cricket on Australian soil, with their most recent tour starting on a high note. The first Test in Perth saw India claim a resounding 295-run victory, their largest win by runs in Australia. Over the years, India has achieved several memorable wins Down Under, with a combination of skill, resilience, and teamwork. Here’s a look at India’s top five Test victories in Australia by margin of runs:
- Perth, 2024: A Commanding 295-Run Triumph
India’s historic 295-run victory in Perth in 2024 stands as their largest win by runs in Australia. On a challenging pitch, stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah made the bold decision to bat first, but India managed only 150 runs in their first innings. In response, Bumrah’s sensational five-wicket haul bowled out Australia for just 104. With the pitch easing out, Indian batters seized the opportunity in the second innings, setting a massive target of 534 runs. Despite some resistance, Australia was dismissed for 238, cementing India’s dominance.
- Melbourne, 1977: India’s First Test Win in Australia
India’s maiden Test victory on Australian soil came at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 1977, where they won by 222 runs. Under the leadership of Bishan Singh Bedi, India’s spinners played a pivotal role in exploiting the conditions. Defending a target of 387, the bowlers delivered an exceptional performance to secure this landmark win, breaking India’s drought of overseas Test victories.
- Melbourne, 2018: Pujara and Bumrah Shine
Another iconic win at the MCG occurred in December 2018, when India defeated Australia by 137 runs. Cheteshwar Pujara anchored the innings with a gritty century, while Jasprit Bumrah decimated the Australian batting lineup with a stellar bowling display. This victory was crucial in India’s historic series triumph in Australia, highlighting the team’s resilience and determination.
- Perth, 2008: A Gritty 72-Run Victory
India’s 72-run win at the WACA in Perth in 2008 demonstrated the team’s ability to overcome adversity. Coming off the controversial Sydney Test, the Indian team regrouped to deliver a spirited performance. Contributions from batsmen like Rahul Dravid and Irfan Pathan’s all-round brilliance helped India secure a memorable win on a lively Perth wicket, showcasing their mental and tactical strength.
- Adelaide, 2018: A Narrow but Crucial 31-Run Win
The 31-run victory at the Adelaide Oval in 2018 was a key moment in India’s series success. Cheteshwar Pujara’s masterful century in the first innings set the foundation, while Ravichandran Ashwin and the pace bowlers delivered under pressure to defend a modest target. This closely-fought win gave India the early momentum they needed to clinch the series.
Conclusion
India’s Test wins in Australia are a testament to their evolution as a cricketing powerhouse. Each victory, from the breakthrough in 1977 to the emphatic win in 2024, reflects the team’s growth and determination to succeed in challenging conditions. With every tour, India continues to leave an indelible mark on Australian soil.
