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NEW DELHI: One of the most defining moments in Indian cricket history, the victory in the Brisbane Test (Gabba) Test in 2021 is often credited to Rishabh Pant, who played an unbeaten match-winning knock of 89, anchoring India’s successful chase of 328 runs, the highest-ever target chased at the Gabba.
But it was Mohammed Siraj‘s spell of 5/73 that set up the match for India to register a historical victory.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Siraj’s 5/73 in Australia’s second innings was his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket and it came in only his third Test match. Siraj, with minimal experience, led an injury-depleted Indian bowling attack that was without senior bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Ravichandran Ashwin, and rose to the challenge and bowled with control and aggression.
Siraj dismissed key players including Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Matthew Wade. These wickets were instrumental in bowling out Australia for 294, setting India a target of 328.
India chased down 328 to win at the Gabba, ending Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue.
Siraj’s performance came amidst personal tragedy, as he had lost his father during the tour but chose to stay in Australia to represent India.
Siraj has lacked rhythm in last few Tests & shorter run-up could be the reason | #beyondtheboundary
Siraj’s success epitomized the resilience and depth of India’s squad during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where the team overcame injuries, absences, and adversity to win the series 2-1.
Siraj’s five-wicket haul is remembered not just for its impact on the game but also for showcasing his maturity, skill, and determination under extraordinary circumstances. It marked the rise of a young bowler who would become a key figure in India’s pace attack in the years to come.
The win highlighted India’s incredible bench strength. Debutants like Washington Sundar and T. Natarajan, alongside other inexperienced players, performed beyond expectations.
This Test showcased the next generation of Indian cricketers stepping up on the biggest stage.
India started the series with a humiliating loss in Adelaide, where they were bowled out for 36, their lowest-ever Test total.
Despite injuries and setbacks, India bounced back to draw the Sydney Test and level the series in Melbourne.
The win in Brisbane sealed the series 2-1, allowing India to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The Gabba victory symbolized resilience, team spirit, and the refusal to give up, even when the odds were overwhelmingly against India. It became a story of triumph over adversity, inspiring fans worldwide.
The Brisbane Test win is not just a victory; it is an enduring symbol of Indian cricket’s rise as a dominant force, capable of winning in all conditions with both experience and youth. It will be remembered as one of the most defining moments in the history of the sport, with Siraj and Pant playing pivotal roles.
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