Sydney, January 5, 2025: Australia ended their decade-long wait to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), clinching their first series win since 2014-15 by defeating India on Day Three at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). This triumph not only marked a historic series victory but also secured Australia’s place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second consecutive time. They are set to face South Africa at Lord’s on June 11, 2025, barring any over-rate penalties.
Australia’s victory was anchored by debutant Beau Webster and seasoned batter Travis Head, who guided the team to a comfortable win with an unbeaten 58-run stand, chasing down a target of 162.
India’s bowling attack, missing star pacer and captain Jasprit Bumrah due to a back spasm, struggled to maintain pressure. Despite Prasidh Krishna’s spirited effort, which saw him claim three quick wickets late in the morning session, Australia’s lower-order composure proved decisive.
The day started with Australian pacers Scott Boland and Pat Cummins dismantling India’s remaining batters. Cummins sent Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar back to the pavilion with sharp seam movement—Jadeja edging a delivery that moved away, and Sundar bowled by one that jagged back in. Boland capped off his six-wicket haul by dismissing Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah, wrapping up India’s innings in just 7.5 overs.
Chasing a modest target, Australia faced early challenges on a pitch offering uneven bounce. Prasidh Krishna briefly revived India’s hopes by dismissing Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steve Smith. Labuschagne’s mistimed shot to gully and Smith’s dismissal—induced by sharp bounce and a stunning diving catch by Yashasvi Jaiswal—were standout moments for India.
However, India’s limited bowling resources, particularly the absence of a third frontline pacer, proved costly as fatigue set in post-lunch. Though Siraj managed to remove Usman Khawaja early, Webster and Head took charge thereafter.
With 91 runs needed after lunch, the duo steadily eroded India’s slim chances. They capitalized on loose deliveries and found regular boundaries. Post-drinks, Webster fittingly sealed the victory with a boundary off Washington Sundar, sparking jubilant celebrations in the Australian camp.
Australia’s emphatic win and consistent performances throughout the WTC cycle have earned them a shot at the championship title once again. Meanwhile, India will look to regroup after missing out on yet another opportunity to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on foreign soil.
