When Ajit Agarkar ran through Australia to set up a memorable Indian victory in Adelaide

Agit Agarkar is congratulated by teammates after dismissing Jason Gillespie in Adelaide on December 15, 2003. (Photo by William West/AFP via Getty Images)

NEW DELHI: Ajit Agarkar‘s performance in Adelaide in 2003 is one of the most memorable moments in Indian cricket history.
During the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, played between India and Australia from December 12-16, 2003, Agarkar, who is now the chairman of India’s selection committee, delivered a crucial spell that contributed to India’s historic victory.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Agarkar took 6 wickets for 41 runs in Australia’s second innings and his dismissals included key Australian batsmen Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, Simon Katich, and Adam Gilchrist.
Agarkar’s spell helped India bowl out Australia for just 196 runs, setting up a manageable target of 230 for India.
Australia had scored a mammoth 556 in their first innings, with Ricky Ponting scoring a double century.
India responded strongly with a score of 523, thanks to centuries from Rahul Dravid (233) and VVS Laxman (148).

Rahul Dravid played a composed innings, scoring an unbeaten 72 to guide India to a four-wicket victory.
This win was significant because it was one of India’s rare Test victories on Australian soil.
Known more for his contributions as an all-rounder, this was one of Agarkar’s finest performances with the ball in Test cricket. It also underlined India’s determination and teamwork during the memorable 2003-04 series in Australia, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
Agarkar’s spell in Adelaide 2003 is celebrated because it was a pivotal moment in one of India’s most famous overseas Test victories.
Agarkar was often viewed as a capable all-rounder but inconsistent as a strike bowler in Tests. His career-best figures of 6/41 against a formidable Australian batting lineup silenced critics and showcased his potential to deliver under pressure.

Winning a Test in Australia was a rare feat for India at the time. Agarkar’s performance played a decisive role in achieving this victory, making it even more special.
The victory in Adelaide remains one of India’s most cherished overseas Test wins. Agarkar’s spell is remembered as one of the cornerstones of this success, highlighting the importance of team contributions beyond just the usual stars.
This performance cemented Agarkar’s place in Indian cricket history as a hero of that iconic Test.