10 Of The Best Border-Gavaskar Trophy Matches

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a testament to the fierce rivalry and enthralling contests between cricketing powerhouses India and Australia. This article delves into the pulsating history of this prestigious Test series, showcasing 10 of the most memorable encounters that have left an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape. From thrilling comebacks and historic victories to iconic performances that have defined eras, each match has contributed to the prestige of this rivalry. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has not only been a battleground for supremacy but also a stage for the emergence of cricketing legends and the creation of enduring memories, making it one of the most sought-after prizes in international Test cricket.

1. 2^nd Test, 2001 BGT

At Eden Gardens, Australia gained a dominant position by dismissing India for a mere 171 runs in the initial innings. Nevertheless, India stitched a historic partnership of 376 runs while following on, featuring VVS Laxman's remarkable 281 and Rahul Dravid's solid 180 for the fifth wicket, which turned the tables in India's favor. The Australians, attempting to chase a challenging target of 384, faced a formidable bowling display, mainly spearheaded by Harbhajan Singh. Eventually, the visitors were bundled out for a mere 212, securing India's victory and etching the Test match into cricketing history.

2. 1^st Test, 2010 BGT

During the 2010 Test in Mohali, India was 124/8, requiring 216 to win. Ishant Sharma's resilient 31-run contribution in a crucial ninth-wicket partnership became pivotal. Battling an injury, Laxman, alongside Ojha, fought relentlessly. With Laxman enduring pain, India secured an exhilarating one-wicket victory, scoring 11 runs in a nail-biting finish. This closely contested Test match remains etched in history for its dramatic conclusion.

3. 4^th Test, 2021 BGT

The Gabba, often hailed as Australia's impregnable fortress due to a 32-year unbeaten streak in Test matches, witnessed a historic turnaround. Guided by Rishabh Pant's brilliant batting, India chased down 328 runs, scripting a remarkable victory just before the close of Day five. Pant, displaying unbeaten resilience with a score of 89, played a pivotal role in breaching the Gabba's formidable defense. This triumph not only secured a series win for India but also etched their names in the annals of cricketing history, marking a momentous achievement against the odds at the revered Australian venue.

4. 3^rd Test, 2021 BGT

Australia was in a commanding position after setting India a target of 407. Although the Indian batters got good scores, none of them could convert them into a big total. Wickets kept falling at regular intervals, and it seemed Australia would win. However, Vihari and Ashwin held the batting, suffering a barrage of short-pitch bowling. The bruised duo faced more than 400 deliveries to draw the match.

5. 3^rd Test, 2023 BGT

Following Nathan Lyon's remarkable eight for 64 that bundled out India for 163 on the second evening, Australia set out to chase 76 runs for their first series win. R Ashwin provided hope by dismissing Usman Khawaja early on the third day. However, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne exhibited a resilient partnership, balancing solid defense with well-timed attacks. Their efforts ultimately secured victory for Australia in just 18.5 overs. The win marked a significant moment for the Australian team and shaped the narrative of the series.

6. 2^nd Test, 2003 BGT

Australia had scored more than 550 runs in the first innings, thanks to a double-century from Ponting. India responded well and posted 523, which included a double century from Dravid. In addition, they were able to restrict Australia cheaply in the second innings, and chased a target of 230, which had some hiccups but was achieved, nevertheless.

7. 3^rd Test, 2003 BGT

In response to India’s first-innings total, Australia responded with a massive 558 runs. It included another double century from Ricky Ponting and a century from Mattew Hayden. Thanks to this batting display, Australia was able to take a significant lead and restrict India to 286 in the second innings. They won a crucial victory as the last game and series ended in a draw.

8. 2^nd Test, 2004

In a match that was dominated by spinners, both the teams batted well on what was a tricky surface. Australia were bundled for 235 in the first innings, and India took a significant lead. However, Australia bounced back in the second innings, scoring 369 and taking the game deep. The result was India had no time to chase, and the match ended in a draw.

9. 3^rd Test, 2001 BGT

A match that went down to the wire, Australia score a formidable 391 in the first innings. In response, India put up a massive 501, leaving Australia trailing by a significant margin. With 155 to chase, India was in trouble as they lost wickets at regular intervals but managed to hold their nerve and see the chase through.

10. 4^th Test, 2023

Australia had a chance to level the series and batted accordingly, scoring 480 in the first innings with centuries from Khawaja and Green. In response, India racked up 571, thanks to centuries from Gill and Kohli. Australia played well to score 175 in the second innings before the match had to end in a draw.