India vs Australia Test Cricket

India and Australia have had a long-standing rivalry in the world of cricket, particularly in the Test format. The two teams have played some thrilling matches over the years, with both sides displaying exceptional skills and talent. In this article, we will take a look at the India vs Australia Test cricket rivalry and some of the memorable matches that have taken place between the two teams.

History of India vs Australia Test Cricket Rivalry:

The India vs Australia Test cricket rivalry dates back to the 1940s when the two teams played their first Test match against each other in Brisbane. However, it was not until the 1970s that the rivalry truly began to take shape. India had emerged as a major cricketing nation, and Australia, already a dominant force in the game, was keen to maintain their status as the best team in the world.

Over the years, the rivalry between the two teams has grown in intensity, with both sides eager to outdo each other. The two teams have played some thrilling Test matches, with several of them going down to the wire. The rivalry has been marked by some great individual performances, as well as some intense and memorable battles between the batsmen and bowlers of the two teams.

Notable India vs Australia Test Matches:

India and Australia have played some memorable Test matches over the years. Here are some of the most notable ones:

1.Kolkata Test, 2001

The Kolkata Test, also known as the "VVS Laxman Test," is one of the most memorable Test matches in the history of Indian cricket. India was following on after being bowled out for just 171 in the first innings, with Australia scoring a massive 445. However, VVS Laxman played one of the greatest innings in Test cricket history, scoring 281 runs off 452 balls. Rahul Dravid also played a crucial role, scoring 180 runs. India managed to score 657 runs in their second innings, setting Australia a target of 384 runs. Harbhajan Singh then took six wickets in the second innings to bowl India to an unlikely victory.

2.Adelaide Test, 2003

The Adelaide Test is another memorable match in the India vs Australia Test cricket rivalry. India was playing Australia in their backyard, and the home team was in a strong position, having scored 556 runs in their first innings. However, India fought back strongly, with Rahul Dravid scoring 233 runs and VVS Laxman scoring 148 runs. India scored 523 runs in their first innings, with Australia managing just 196 runs in their second innings. India won the match by four wickets, with Sachin Tendulkar hitting the winning runs.

3.Perth Test, 2008

The Perth Test is remembered for the fierce battle between Indian fast bowler Ishant Sharma and Australian batsman Ricky Ponting. Australia had scored 212 runs in their first innings, with Ishant Sharma taking four wickets. India then scored 294 runs in their first innings, with VVS Laxman scoring a brilliant century. Australia was set a target of 413 runs to win, and they were in a strong position at 130/0. However, Ishant Sharma then produced a spell of bowling that will be remembered for years to come. He took three wickets in the space of 14 balls to turn the match in India's favour. India won the match by 72 runs.

4.Bangalore Test, 2017

The Bangalore Test is another classic in the India vs Australia Test cricket rivalry. Australia had won the first Test of the series, and India was keen to level the series. Australia batted first and scored 276 runs in their first innings, with Steve Smith scoring a brilliant century.