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On this day, January 7,2019: India became the first Asian country to win a Test series in Australia. Virat Kohli led the Indian team to a 2-1 victory against Australia. It was a magnificent achievement as no other Asian side has managed this feat. Overall, India were the fifth team to win a series on Australia after England, West Indies, New Zealand and South Africa.
The fourth and final Test of the series ended in a draw due to persistent rain. India scores 622 runs in the first innings and dismissed Australia cheaply and ensured a follow on. They could have highly likely won this match without rain interruptions but however they were pleased to clinch the series as the draw ensured that Border Gavaskar Trophy stayed with India. The fourth Test ended in a draw at the SCG and celebrations began.
It was a highly competitive series, despite the absence of Smith and Warner, Australia performed really well and test India at various times. That is what made this series victory even more special for India. The Border Gavaskar Trophy 2018/19 began in December. India managed to win the first and third Test, while Australia won the second Test, and the fourth match ended in a draw.
India were excellent with their batting throughout the series and the star was Pujara who scored 521 runs at an average of 74.42. His knocks included three centuries and a fifty and more importantly he batted long hours to make it easy for the batters at other end. He was truly a wall for India this series. Virat Kohli scored a classic century at Perth and was third highest run getter for India in the series.
From the bowling aspect, Bumrah stepped up very well picking up 21 wickets at an average of 17. He was crucial in the Melbourne performance picking up 6 for 33. Shami supported him really well picking up 16 wickets. It was a series that will forever be etched in the mind of Indian fans. That series win shifted the narrative that India could also do well overseas especially in SENA countries.
