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BGT: 5 Best Batting Performances By Indians In Boxing Day Test

Rajgeeta Yadav

Ajinkya Rahane scored century against Australia [Source: @BCCI/X.com]Ajinkya Rahane scored century against Australia [Source: @BCCI/X.com]

When Talking about India and Australia in terms of cricket, they have created some of the most memorable moments in the history. The intense rivalry between these two powerhouses has produced breathtaking performances, especially during Boxing Day Tests. Over the years, several Indian players have delivered remarkable knocks, even in the face of defeat or adversity.

So, in this article, let's take a look at the top 5 Boxing Day knocks by Indians against Australia.

5) Virat Kohli – 169 (2014)

2014 Boxing Day Test in Melbourne was part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Australia batting first posted a mammoth 530, powered by Steve Smith’s 192 and Ryan Harris’s 74. India have had a mountain to climb, but Virat Kohli showcased his resilience and utmost class.

In the first innings, Kohli slammed 169 runs off 272 balls in a stellar partnership with Ajinkya Rahane, who added 147 runs. Together, they helped India reach a competitive 465. In the second innings, Kohli chipped in with a quick 54, but the match eventually ended in a draw.

4) Cheteshwar Pujara – 106 (2018)

India star Cheteshwar Pujara’s grit and patience have been the backbone of India’s Test success and his Boxing Day knock in 2018 is a prime example. In the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2018-19, Pujara anchored the innings with 106 runs off 319 balls.

India declared their first innings at 443, with significant contributions from Virat Kohli (82). In response, Australia were bowled out for 151. After setting a target, India wrapped up the match with a 137-run victory. It is important to mention that Pujara’s calm approach was instrumental in securing this historic win at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

3) Virender Sehwag – 195 (2003)

Virender Sehwag has always been for his fearless approach and his Boxing Day knock in 2003 was nothing short of spectacular. Sehwag blasted 195 runs off just 233 balls and provided India a solid foundation after their top-order collapsed.

India scored 366 in the first innings, but Australia, led by Ricky Ponting’s mammoth 257, posted a daunting 558. In the second innings, India managed only 286 runs despite Rahul Dravid’s 92 and Sourav Ganguly’s 73. Australia won the match by 9 wickets, but Sehwag’s knock stood out as a masterpiece of aggression and skill.

2) Ajinkya Rahane – 112 (2020)

Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership and batting brilliance shone brightly during the 2020 Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Coming off India’s disastrous 36 all-out in Adelaide, Rahane led from the front in the second Test of the series.

After bowling Australia out for 195 in the first innings, Rahane scored a gritty 112 runs off 223 balls, stabilizing the Indian innings and helping them secure a lead. India bowled Australia out for 200 in the second innings and chased down the target comfortably, winning by 8 wickets. Rahane’s knock not only restored India’s confidence but also turned the series around.

1) Sachin Tendulkar – 116 (1999)

At the top of this list is Sachin Tendulkar’s unforgettable century in the 1999 Boxing Day Test. Despite India’s eventual loss, Tendulkar’s knock was a pure masterclass in technique and determination.

Australia scored 405 in their first innings, with contributions from Michael Slater (91) and Ricky Ponting (67). Meanwhile, India's batting line-up crumbled, but the Little Master stood tall, scoring 116 runs while no other Indian batter crossed 31. Men In Blue managed just 238 in the first innings.

In the second innings, Australia set a target after scoring 208. India faltered again, getting bowled out for 195 and losing by 180 runs. However, Tendulkar’s lone battle against a formidable Australian attack earned him Player of the Match, despite losing the match and the knock remains one of the most inspiring Boxing Day performances.