After all the drama created by the rain on the final day of the 3rd test between India and Australia, India did eventually manage to take the last two wickets and take an unassailable lead of 2-1. But it came after we saw some rearguard action from Pat Cummins. So India won a test match, but what made it so special was that it was an overseas win, it was a Boxing Day test win, it was against the once invincible Australian team in their own backyard. But one thing that makes it most special is that it makes it clear that India is no longer just a home bully. It is the first time in the last 7-8 years that India will not lose a test series on a tour to the SENA countries(South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia).
India started the year with successive defeats in South Africa before salvaging some pride with a dramatic win in the third test. Then in England, they blew hot and cold and lost the series. At home, they expectedly wiped out the Windies. It was only against Australia that results started to complement their performance. India's bowling department has been impeccable throughout the year. The likes of Bumrah, Ishant, and Shami have made sure that India's bowling attack is as good as any in the world presently. Their batting was good in patches, but consistency was never there. Also, they were missing catches in the slips. So, both of these factors led India down big time. Against Australia, their batting was a lot more consistent than before. Kohli's performance has always been on top and Pujara and Rahane have also given him good support.
So, batting, bowling and slip catching all came together in MCG. This was India's first win in a Boxing Day test, also their first win in MCG in 37 years. Apart from these milestones, this wins also ensures that India have a great chance of doing the unprecedented: a test series win Down Under. The Sydney test is set up beautifully for India to create history and lets hope that India continue their winning momentum to gift us a rare series win overseas.
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