Australia achieved a thrilling victory over India at the SCG, with Scott Boland’s outstanding performance and Beau Webster’s match-winning runs capturing the headlines. Boland was the star with an extraordinary display, claiming ten wickets, marking his first ten-wicket haul in a Test match. The pitch was perfectly suited to his style, allowing him to execute his plans flawlessly, culminating in the crucial dismissals of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah.
Australia’s chase, while modest in target, was not without drama. The home team aimed for 162 on a tough SCG pitch, with Sam Konstas and Usman Khawaja setting an aggressive tone early on. However, Konstas’s dismissal, along with quick wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith, threatened to derail their pursuit. Smith, aiming to surpass 10,000 Test runs, fell just one run short, a milestone he is likely to reach in the upcoming series in Sri Lanka.
Mohammed Siraj reached his personal milestone during the innings by taking his 100th Test wicket, a key moment amidst the pressure of a series-defining Test. His efforts, however, were in vain as Australia maintained their composure despite the clatter of wickets.
In the end, it was Beau Webster who steered the team to victory. With remarkable composure, the Tasmanian debutant played a crucial role both with the bat and in the field. Webster’s unbeaten 39, including the decisive boundary off Washington Sundar, sealed Australia’s win, securing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The match will be remembered for Boland’s bowling masterclass and the dramatic conclusion, highlighting the intense rivalry between the two cricketing giants.
