The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is not just a series but a testament to the intense rivalry between India and Australia in cricket. Among the many memorable matches between IND vs AUS, the Boxing Day Tests at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) have often been the stage for some of the most remarkable bowling performances. Here, we delve into three of the best:
3. Anil Kumble’s Masterclass – 5-84 in 2007
The 2007 Boxing Day Test was one for the history books, not least because of Anil Kumble’s strategic brilliance. Leading India, Kumble was not just there to set the field; he was there to weave magic with the ball. On a pitch that was initially friendly to batsmen, Australia had made a brisk start, reaching 135 without loss. However, Kumble’s introduction into the attack changed the complexion of the game.
His spell was crucial, claiming the wickets of Phil Jaques and Michael Hussey, both of whom looked set for big scores. But Kumble’s real impact was felt when he dismissed Andrew Symonds and Adam Gilchrist in quick succession, effectively breaking the back of the Australian batting lineup. Ending with figures of 5-84 from his 25 overs, Kumble had not only restricted Australia but had also set a tone for Indian dominance in that match. This performance was pivotal in giving India a fighting chance in a series where every match counted.
2. Ben Hilfenhaus’s Breakthrough – 5-75 in 2011
The 2011-12 BGT series saw Ben Hilfenhaus at the pinnacle of his career, delivering one of the most impactful performances in a Boxing Day Test. The MCG pitch wasn’t necessarily offering much to the bowlers, but Hilfenhaus’s accuracy and variation were enough to dismantle India’s batting fortress.
He started with the dismissal of Gautam Gambhir, setting the stage for a series of crucial wickets. Hilfenhaus was instrumental in removing Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, and MS Dhoni, each with deliveries that either kept low or swung just enough to deceive the batsmen. His spell was a masterclass in seam bowling, as he managed to induce edges and mistakes from some of the best in the business. This performance not only gave Australia a significant lead but also marked a high point in Hilfenhaus’s career, often overshadowed by his more celebrated teammates.
1. Jasprit Bumrah’s Sensational Spell – 6-33 in 2018
Perhaps one of the most talked-about performances in recent BGT history, Jasprit Bumrah’s spell in the 2018 Boxing Day Test was nothing short of sensational. With India already having posted a commanding 443-7 declared, the pressure was on Australia to respond. Enter Bumrah, whose ability to vary his pace and length was about to wreak havoc.
Bumrah started his demolition with Marcus Harris and followed it up with a devastating slower ball to dismiss Shaun Marsh, a delivery that would be replayed countless times for its perfection. He then proceeded to dismantle the Australian middle and lower order, picking up Travis Head, Tim Paine, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood, finishing with an incredible 6-33 from just 15.5 overs.
This spell was not just about numbers; it was about the psychological impact it had on the series. Bumrah’s performance was a clear message of India’s bowling prowess, and his additional three wickets in the second innings were crucial in securing a 137-run victory for India, which underlined his status as one of the premier fast bowlers in the world.
Looking Ahead to IND vs AUS 2024
As we look forward to the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test on December 26, 2024, with the series currently at 1-1 and a match drawn, the anticipation for another epic encounter is palpable. The MCG, with its rich history of producing memorable contests, is set to witness yet another chapter in this storied rivalry.
The performances of Kumble, Hilfenhaus, and Bumrah serve as reminders of what can happen when bowlers are at their best. With the series hanging in balance, fans will be eager to see if new heroes will emerge or if veterans will add to their legacy at this iconic venue.
The stage is set for India vs Australia to once again battle for supremacy, where bowling might could well dictate the fate of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Whether it’s the pace, swing, or spin, the Boxing Day Test has a knack for bringing out the best in bowlers, and the cricketing world is watching eagerly.
