Australia reclaims Border-Gavaskar Trophy with SCG triumph

Australia has reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the first time since the 2014-15 series, sealing a commanding six-wicket victory over India on Day 3 at the SCG to complete a 3-1 series triumph.

The historic win, achieved in just two and a half days, marked the end of a long drought in the iconic rivalry, claiming the victory as the $1.80 bookmaker favourites pre-game.

Scott Boland was named Player of the Match after an extraordinary performance, taking 10 wickets in the game and finishing the series with 21 wickets at an average of just 13.1.

Reflecting on his contributions, Boland said, “It’s been a really enjoyable couple of months. Probably didn’t expect to play too much of a part in the series, but I prepared as I was going to. The last few weeks have been awesome.”

Beau Webster’s debut became the standout story of the match.

Reflecting on his incredible debut performance, Webster said, “Absolutely, Howie. It definitely wasn’t looking like this a few days ago, but, no, it’s been a hell of a game. I probably couldn’t ask for much more on debut.”

Speaking about the winning boundary, he added, “I was just at the heavy then. I was gonna go no matter what that ball. When it got to four, I was gonna try and flog it, not leave it up to him next over. Glad I got good connection and it went to the boundary.”

Travis Head, who played a crucial role with an unbeaten partnership alongside Webster, highlighted the team’s resilience.

“This one means a lot, not just to me but to the group. Beating India in a Test series has been elusive for years,” he said.

Speaking about his own performance, Head added, “I felt like if I could contribute in some way, that’d be great. It’s been a crazy three days, and I’m looking forward to ten days off.”

India’s Jasprit Bumrah was named Player of the Series for his 32 wickets at an average of 13.

Despite missing the final day due to injury, Bumrah remained gracious in defeat.

“A little disappointing at the end that I probably missed out on the spiciest cricket of the series, but, yeah, that’s the way it is. Sometimes you have to accept what it is and move forward,” he said.

Reflecting on the series, Bumrah acknowledged, “It was not like it was totally one-sided. This is how Test cricket goes in the nerve moments. Whichever team holds the nerve for the longest time will win the series.”

Australian captain Pat Cummins praised his team’s collective effort throughout the series.

“Immense pride,” he said.

“We weren’t at our best at Perth, but it was never as bad as it seemed. We stuck tight and doubled down on what makes us a really good side.”

Discussing the significance of the series, Cummins added, “This was one that a few of us didn’t have. It’s been an amazing series, and it’s one of those ones you have circled on the calendar for a fair while. It’s lived up to all the hype.”

As the Australians celebrated their victory, Cummins emphasised the importance of the support from fans and the broader cricket community.

“Every venue was incredible. MCG last week was off its head, and I think three sellouts in three days here in Sydney. It shows why Test cricket is the best format and why we love playing it so much,” he said.

With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy back in Australian hands, the team celebrated a momentous achievement that showcased their resilience, skill, and unity, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting two-game Test Series against Sri Lanka in February.

Unfortunately, no cricket betting markets have been released, but it is expected that Australia will be the favourite heading into game one.

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