Test cricket is the ultimate arena for cricketers, offering a stage to demonstrate skill, patience, and perseverance. Over the years, several Indian legends have had the unique distinction of ending their illustrious Test careers against Australia, a team known for its competitive spirit. Let’s revisit five legendary Indian cricketers who bowed out of Test cricket after facing the mighty Aussies, including the prospect of Ravichandran Ashwin doing so in the future.
1. Kapil Dev (1994)
Kapil Dev, India’s greatest all-rounder and the captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, played his last Test against Australia in October 1994 in Mohali. Known for his deadly outswingers and aggressive batting, Kapil’s career spanned over 16 years.
He retired with 434 wickets, the then-highest in Test cricket, and over 5,000 runs, making him one of the game’s finest all-rounders. His final Test was an understated affair, with India and Australia playing a drawn match, but Kapil’s contributions to Indian cricket remain unparalleled.
2. Sunil Gavaskar (1987)
Sunil Gavaskar, the “Little Master,” is regarded as one of the greatest openers in cricket history. He played his last Test against Australia during the 1987 Bangalore Test. Gavaskar’s impeccable technique against fast bowlers and his ability to dominate world-class attacks made him a trailblazer in Indian cricket.
In his farewell Test, Gavaskar scored 96 on a challenging pitch, showcasing his legendary determination. Though India lost the match, Gavaskar’s legacy as the first batsman to cross 10,000 Test runs remains a benchmark for excellence.
3. VVS Laxman (2012)
VVS Laxman, famously known as the “Very Very Special” batsman, bid farewell to Test cricket against Australia during the 2012 Hyderabad Test. Known for his wristy elegance and unmatched performances under pressure, Laxman was a tormentor of Australian bowlers throughout his career.
His 281 in the iconic 2001 Kolkata Test is etched in cricketing folklore. Although his final appearance wasn’t as dramatic, Laxman’s contribution to Indian cricket, particularly in Tests against Australia, remains legendary.
4. Anil Kumble (2008)
India’s greatest spinner and one of the finest bowlers of all time, Anil Kumble, retired after the 2008 Delhi Test against Australia. Leading the Indian team as captain, Kumble announced his retirement after battling a finger injury during the series.
With 619 Test wickets, Kumble remains India’s highest wicket-taker in Tests. His warrior-like spirit was evident when he bowled with a bandaged jaw in the 2002 Antigua Test. Kumble’s farewell symbolized his immense contributions to Indian cricket and his indomitable fighting spirit.
5. Ravichandran Ashwin
The latest addition to this list is R. Ashwin, who announced his retirement following the third Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Test of the 2024-25 series at The Gabba. Ashwin was not part of the playing XI for that match, making his final appearance in the second Test held in Adelaide.
Ashwin concluded his Test career with 537 wickets, second only to Anil Kumble’s 619, boasting an impressive average of 24.00 and 37 five-wicket hauls. With the bat, he amassed 3,503 runs, including six centuries and 14 half-centuries.
Notably, only seven Indian cricketers have played their final Test match against Australia. Among them is former opener Virender Sehwag, who retired in 2013 after playing his last game in Hyderabad.
The rivalry between India and Australia has brought out the best in players from both sides. For the Indian legends who concluded their Test journeys against Australia, their farewells were a reflection of their incredible contributions to the game. Whether it was Kapil Dev’s resilience, Gavaskar’s mastery, Laxman’s artistry, Kumble’s grit, or the speculation around Ashwin’s legacy, their careers have left an indelible mark on the sport.
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