The cricketing rivalry between the Australian Men’s Cricket Team and the India National Cricket Team has consistently been one of the most electrifying in the sport’s history. The year 2024 was no exception, with both teams delivering memorable performances across formats. From thrilling T20 clashes to high-intensity Test matches, cricket fans were treated to a series of nail-biting encounters. This article provides a detailed account of these matches, complete with scorecards, highlights, and key takeaways.
1. ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8 Match
- Date: June 24, 2024
- Venue: Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium, St. Lucia
- Result: India won by 24 runs
- Player of the Match: Rohit Sharma
Match Summary:
The T20 World Cup clash between Australia and India was one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament. Batting first, India posted an imposing total of 205/5, thanks to a scintillating innings from Rohit Sharma, who smashed 76 runs off just 41 balls. Suryakumar Yadav also contributed with a quickfire 31 off 16 balls, ensuring India crossed the 200-run mark.
In response, Australia managed 181/7 in their 20 overs. Despite strong performances from Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, the Australian batsmen failed to keep up with the required run rate. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Yuzvendra Chahal, delivered disciplined performances to secure the win.
Scorecard:
India Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 76 | 41 | 7 | 8 |
| Suryakumar Yadav | 31 | 16 | 4 | 2 |
| Hardik Pandya | 28* | 15 | 2 | 2 |
Bowling (Australia):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Josh Hazlewood | 4 | 32 | 2 |
| Adam Zampa | 4 | 39 | 1 |
Australia Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Glenn Maxwell | 52 | 30 | 5 | 3 |
| Marcus Stoinis | 45 | 26 | 4 | 2 |
Bowling (India):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 4 | 25 | 2 |
| Yuzvendra Chahal | 4 | 34 | 3 |
2. First Test Match: Perth
- Date: December 3-7, 2024
- Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth
- Result: India won by 295 runs
- Player of the Match: Jasprit Bumrah
Match Summary:
The opening Test of the series set the tone for a fiercely contested battle. Batting first, India managed a modest total of 150, with Nathan Lyon wreaking havoc on the batting lineup. Australia’s reply was equally underwhelming as they were bowled out for 104, thanks to Jasprit Bumrah’s fiery spell.
India’s second innings was a masterclass in resilience and skill. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 161 and Virat Kohli’s composed knock propelled the team to a mammoth 487/6 declared. Chasing 534, Australia folded for 238, giving India a comprehensive victory.
Scorecard:
India First Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Rohit Sharma | 34 | 72 | 5 | 0 |
| Virat Kohli | 22 | 50 | 3 | 0 |
Bowling (Australia):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Nathan Lyon | 12 | 35 | 5 |
| Pat Cummins | 10 | 28 | 3 |
Australia First Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Steve Smith | 32 | 56 | 4 | 0 |
| Travis Head | 18 | 40 | 2 | 0 |
Bowling (India):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 12 | 22 | 5 |
| Mohammed Shami | 10 | 30 | 3 |
3. Fourth Test Match: Melbourne
- Date: December 26-30, 2024
- Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
- Result: Australia won by 184 runs
- Player of the Match: Pat Cummins
Match Summary:
The Boxing Day Test at the MCG lived up to its reputation for high drama. Australia batted first, posting 338, with Marnus Labuschagne scoring a brilliant century. India’s response was steady but unremarkable, as they were bowled out for 296.
In the second innings, Australia declared at 287/6, setting India a target of 330. Despite a strong partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant, India faltered under pressure and were bowled out for 155. Pat Cummins and Scott Boland were the chief architects of Australia’s win.
Scorecard:
Australia First Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Marnus Labuschagne | 125 | 210 | 15 | 1 |
| David Warner | 48 | 78 | 7 | 0 |
Bowling (India):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Jasprit Bumrah | 20 | 56 | 4 |
| Ravichandran Ashwin | 22 | 85 | 3 |
India First Innings:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s |
| Virat Kohli | 67 | 95 | 9 | 0 |
| Shubman Gill | 45 | 76 | 6 | 1 |
Bowling (Australia):
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
| Pat Cummins | 24 | 67 | 5 |
| Mitchell Starc | 20 | 45 | 3 |
Key Highlights of the Series:
- Jasprit Bumrah’s Brilliance: The Indian pacer was in phenomenal form throughout the series, consistently troubling the Australian batsmen.
- Rohit Sharma’s Leadership: Under Rohit’s captaincy, India displayed remarkable resilience, especially in the Test matches.
- Pat Cummins’ All-Round Contribution: The Australian skipper led from the front with both the ball and key tactical decisions.
- Emerging Stars: Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as a dependable opener for India, while Cameron Green’s all-round abilities shone for Australia.
Conclusion:
The 2024 series between Australia and India was a testament to the quality and intensity of cricket played between these two nations. Both teams had moments of dominance, with the series offering fans unforgettable performances and edge-of-the-seat drama. As the cricketing calendar moves forward, the rivalry between these giants is set to grow even stronger, promising more thrilling contests in the future.
