NEW DELHI: Trailing 2-1 in the series after a heartbreaking loss in the Boxing Day in Test Melbourne, India have a task cut out against a dominant Australians if they are to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The two teams are in the Sydney for the final battle with the blockbuster Pink Test is scheduled to begin from January 3.
On the backfoot after the loss in Melbourne, Team India will have to take some tough calls if they are to square off the series.To go with that India’s dubious record will add more pressure on them as they only have a solitary win at the venue since 1947.
The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground holds a rich history but it hasn’t been kind to Team India.
Although India have had their moments of resilience, iconic performances and triumph at the SCG but the overall numbers haven’t been kind to them.
India have played 13 Tests at the SCG, with a record of 1 win, 5 losses, and 7 draws.
Overview of India’s Test record at SCG
Total Matches Played: 13
Wins: 1
Losses: 5
Draws: 7
While India’s solitary win dates back to 1978, the SCG has been a stage where Indian cricket has showcased tremendous grit and determination.
India’s sole win at the SCG came under the leadership of Bishan Singh Bedi in 1978. Bhagwath Chandrasekhar’s lethal spin spell helped India bowl out Australia for 131, securing an innings victory.
However, other matches at the ground saw mixed fortunes, with Australia often getting the better of India.
One of India’s proudest moments at the SCG came in 2004, when Sachin Tendulkar crafted an iconic 241*, steering clear of cover drives to counter his weakness at the time.
Sachin’s double century was instrumental in India posting their highest Test total at the ground, 705 for 7 declared, a score that still stands as one of the highest in SCG history.
In recent years, the SCG has been a fortress of resilience for India.
Draws in 2015, 2019, and 2021 underscored the team’s ability to withstand pressure.
The 2021 Test in particular was a landmark moment in India’s Test history as an injured Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin’s defiant partnership helped India salvage a draw against all odds.
