In one of the most memorable Test series in the history of cricket, India beat Australia by 3 wickets to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1.
Playing without the ace batsman and captain Virat Kohli, an injury-laden Team India showed magnificent zeal in chasing a formidable 328-run target, winning the fourth and the final test match at The Gabba in Brisbane. 23-year-old Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant demonstrated extraordinary character and played the innings of his life, scoring an unbeaten 89 runs, to help the team led by Ajinkya Rahane to breach the Gabba fortress. Earlier, Shubman Gill scored a brilliant 91 and Chesteshwar Pujara scored a patient 211-ball 56 to ensure that India dominated the proceedings. This was the first time that Australia lost a test at this venue since 1988.
Played at Adelaide, the first test match in the series was won by Australia. The second, played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, was won by India. The third at Sydney, however, resulted in a draw.
The spirited performance by Team India brought applauds from all quarters, with messages pouring in from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 19, 2021
Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar was also ecstatic after the victory of Team India.
EVERY SESSION WE DISCOVERED A NEW HERO.
Every time we got hit, we stayed put & stood taller. We pushed boundaries of belief to play fearless but not careless cricket. Injuries & uncertainties were countered with poise & confidence. One of the greatest series wins!
Congrats India. pic.twitter.com/ZtCChUURLV— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) January 19, 2021
Former Indian captain and President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) also tweeted his congratulations to the entire team. He also announced a 5 crore bonus for the entire team.
Just a remarkable win…To go to Australia and win a test series in this way ..will be remembered in the history of indian cricket forever ..Bcci announces a 5 cr bonus for the team ..The value of this win is beyond any number ..well done to every member of the touring party..
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) January 19, 2021
Virat Kohli, who is on paternity leave, also tweeted to congratulate his team for their exemplary performance.
WHAT A WIN!!! Yessssss. To everyone who doubted us after Adelaide, stand up and take notice. Exemplary performance but the grit and determination was the standout for us the whole way. Well done to all the boys and the management. Enjoy this historic feat lads. Cheers 👏🏼🇮🇳 @BCCI pic.twitter.com/CgWElgOOO1
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) January 19, 2021
Many congratulations to Team India for their stupendous victory!
