On this day: India’s historic win at MCG in the 2018 Boxing Day Test

On this day in 2018, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) witnessed a monumental moment in cricket history as India secured a comfortable 137-run victory over Australia. This win not only gave India an unassailable 2-1 lead in the four-match series but also ensured retention of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

India chose to bat first and showed their resilience. Opener Mayank Agarwal, making his Test debut, made an immediate impact, scoring a confident 76 runs that laid a solid foundation for the innings. However, the backbone of India’s batting power was Cheteshwar Pujara, who scored 106 off 319 deliveries. Skipper Virat Kohli contributed with a consistent 82 points and Rohit Sharma’s unbeaten 63 points took India to an impressive total of 443 with 7 points declared.

Bumrah’s Bowling Masterclass

Australia’s response was offset by a sensational bowling performance from Jasprit Bumrah as he took a career-best 6 for 33 in the first innings, displaying a mix of pace and accuracy that resulted in Australia only eliminated with 151. Bumrah’s match figures of 9 for 86 were the best results by an Indian fast bowler on Australian soil.

With a significant lead, India decided to bat again to set an insurmountable target. However, Australia’s Pat Cummins gave figures of 6 for 27, putting India at 106 for 8. Facing a daunting target of 399, Cummins also put on a show with the bat as the top order faltered, top-scoring with 63. But the tenacious Indian bowling attack, once again led by Bumrah and ably supported by Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja, ensured Australia were bowled out for 261, ensuring a comprehensive victory for India.

This win at the MCG was historic for a number of reasons. It was India’s first Test victory at the iconic venue since 1981 and was instrumental in India ultimately winning the series 2-1, their first Test series victory on Australian soil. The win was a testament to India’s overall performance, with significant contributions from both batsmen and bowlers, reflecting a balanced and formidable side. Bumrah’s exceptional bowling performance earned him the Player of the Match award.