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As Rohit Sharma’s men prepare for the fourth match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, let’s revisit the top five highest scores by Indian players on this historic ground.
Virat Kohli (AP Photo)
The Boxing Day Test is a few days away and India will look to get back on the winning ways to take an unassailable lead in the ongoing series. The visitors haven’t lost a Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in their last two Australia tours and would like to register a hat-trick of victories when they lock horns with the Aussies later this week.
The iconic venue has been the stage for some unforgettable performances from India. As Rohit Sharma’s men prepare for the fourth match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, let’s revisit the top five highest scores by Indian players on this historic ground.
Virender Sehwag 195 (2003-04)
Few innings are as explosive as Virender Sehwag’s assault on the Australian bowlers in 2003. With 130 of his 195 runs coming in boundaries (25 fours and five sixes), Sehwag dominated the Boxing Day Test with his trademark aggression. Reaching his century by the second session, he set the tone for India before a middle-order collapse curtailed their innings at 366. Despite the loss, Sehwag’s fiery knock remains etched in MCG folklore.
Virat Kohli 169 (2014-15)
Virat Kohli’s 2014 innings at the MCG showcased his adaptability and class against a formidable Australian attack. Following twin failures in Brisbane, Kohli silenced critics with a sublime century that solidified his reputation as one of India’s best overseas batters. His partnership with Ajinkya Rahane was pivotal, ensuring India stayed competitive despite Australia’s imposing first-innings total.
Ajinkya Rahane 147 (2014-15)
Rahane complemented Kohli brilliantly during their 262-run stand, scoring a fluent century that highlighted his prowess on challenging foreign pitches. Already having centuries at Lord’s and Wellington earlier that year, Rahane proved his consistency. Though his dismissal triggered a collapse, his efforts alongside Kohli ensured India secured a hard-fought draw.
Sunil Gavaskar 118 (1977-78)
In 1977, India achieved their first-ever win on Australian soil, thanks in part to Sunil Gavaskar’s gritty second-innings century. His composed knock, the highest second-innings century by an Indian at the MCG, laid the foundation for a commanding lead. Coupled with BS Chandrasekhar’s twin six-wicket hauls, Gavaskar’s effort helped India script a historic victory.
Sachin Tendulkar 116 (1999-2000)
Amid a dismal series for India, Sachin Tendulkar’s century at the MCG in 1999 stood out as a testament to his resilience. Scoring 116 while six other batters managed single-digit scores, Tendulkar single-handedly kept India afloat. Though his partnership with Anil Kumble barely avoided a follow-on, it was not enough to prevent a crushing defeat.
- Location :
Melbourne, Australia
