The cricketing world is buzzing as India-Australia gear up for the first Test of the much-awaited 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Starting November 22 at the Perth Stadium, this five-match series promises to be a thrilling battle between two of the best Test teams in the world.
India is chasing history, aiming for a third consecutive Test series win in Australia after their famous victories in 2018-19 and 2020-21. However, Perth has always been a tough ground for India, with only one win in five Tests at this venue.
Despite the challenges, Perth holds a special place in Indian cricket history. Fans still remember Sachin Tendulkar’s iconic 114 on a lively WACA pitch in 1992 and Virat Kohli’s brilliant 123 in 2018. While individual performances have shone, team success at Perth has largely eluded India.
Here, we revisit three unforgettable India-Australia Test matches played in Perth, highlighting moments of intense competition and drama.
1. The Thrilling Battle in 2018
The last Test between these two sides in Perth was during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After winning the opener in Adelaide, India came to Perth looking to extend their lead.
Australia batted first on a lively pitch and posted 326. India stumbled early but fought back with a remarkable century by skipper Virat Kohli, scoring 283 in reply. Despite Kohli’s heroics, Australia secured a slim lead and added 243 runs in their second innings.
Chasing 287, India faltered against a disciplined Australian attack, collapsing for just 140 runs and losing by 146 runs. Off-spinner Nathan Lyon claimed eight wickets and was named Player of the Match. This victory leveled the series at 1-1.
2. India’s Lone Perth Victory in 2008
India’s only Test win in Perth came during the 2007-08 series, a triumph remembered for its resilience and grit. After losing the first two matches, India entered this game under immense pressure.
Batting first, India scored 330, thanks to crucial contributions from Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar. The bowlers then delivered a stellar performance, restricting Australia to 212 in their first innings.
With a healthy lead of 118 runs, India added 294 more in their second innings, setting a daunting target of 413. The Australian team put up a fight, but India’s bowlers held their nerve, bowling them out for 340 to secure a 72-run victory.
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3. A Narrow Loss in 1977 India-Australia
India’s first-ever Test in Perth during the 1977-78 series was a nail-biter. Batting first, India scored a strong 402, with Mohinder Amarnath and Chetan Chauhan making valuable contributions.
Australia, led by Bob Simpson’s 176, nearly matched India’s total, finishing eight runs short. In the second innings, Amarnath scored a brilliant century, and Sunil Gavaskar added 127 to set Australia a target of 339.
Australia, however, chased down the target with two wickets to spare, thanks to a gutsy century by Tony Mann. It was a heartbreaking loss but remains one of the most thrilling matches played in Perth.
Anticipation for 2024-25
As the 2024-25 series begins, the Perth Test is set to be another chapter in the fierce rivalry between these two cricketing giants. With both teams boasting strong lineups, fans can expect high drama and unforgettable moments. Will India break their Perth jinx, or will Australia continue their dominance at home? The stage is set for a blockbuster clash!
