January 5, 2025: Pat Cummins has described Australia’s 3-1 victory over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy as one of his favourite series, as it marked the end of a 10-year-long wait for an Australian triumph in the prestigious competition. Australia clinched the series with a six-wicket win in Sydney, finally breaking their drought in a contest that had eluded them for a decade.
The match had its tense moments, but Scott Boland‘s brilliant bowling performance turned the tide for Australia. Boland was outstanding in Sydney, returning figures of 10/75, taking crucial wickets at vital moments and keeping the pressure on India throughout their batting innings. Beau Webster, a debutant, capped the victory with a calm and composed finish, hitting the boundary that sealed the win for Australia.
In his post-match presentation, Pat Cummins, who led the team with authority, shared his emotional connection with the series. “It will go down as one of my favourite series. The fans have made this series. MCG was great, and three sellouts in Sydney. It is such a special day in the calendar. It is something I grew up with. We are celebrating such a great cause,” Cummins said, acknowledging the importance of the win and the crowd’s role in creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The victory didn’t come easily for Australia, though. Despite chasing a modest target of 162 in the fourth innings, the hosts were reduced to 58/3, with the chase looking increasingly difficult. However, Travis Head and debutant Webster played calm and patient knocks to steady the ship and guide Australia to victory.
Cummins spoke about the grit needed to pull through in such a tricky situation: “Unreal. It is one that a few of us didn’t have. The boys have had their eye on it, and it has lived up to the hype. We were just clear with the plans. Wanted to minimise the runs. We knew it was going to be a tricky wicket. The batters had a good method,” he said, reflecting on the collective effort of the team.
Cummins also expressed pride in how the team has come together as a unit over the series, sharing that even though their Perth defeat was a setback, it didn’t define their journey. “Perth was not as bad as it seems. We have had a lot of fun along the way. Some success along the way is always nice. It has been such a special group,” he added, emphasizing the camaraderie and resilience of his team.
The 3-1 series win not only gave Australia the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also secured their place in the World Test Championship final, where they will face South Africa for the ultimate prize in the longest format of the game. “We feel so privileged to have achieved what we have. Really proud. We are also having the best times of our lives. It is always nice,” Cummins said, marking the triumph as a significant moment in his career and for Australian cricket.
Australia will now turn their attention to the World Test Championship final, set to take place at Lord’s on June 11, where they will defend their title against South Africa, who are making their first appearance in the final.