Cricket

The Gabba Test of 2021, a pivotal moment in Indian cricket history, witnessed a remarkable triumph against all odds. Mohammed Siraj's exceptional bowling performance laid the foundation for India's historic victory, while Rishabh Pant's match-winning knock sealed the deal.Siraj, in only his third Test match, delivered a stunning spell of 5/73 in Australia's second innings. His maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket came at a crucial juncture, dismissing key players like Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Matthew Wade. These wickets played a pivotal role in restricting Australia to 294, setting India a challenging target of 328.Despite the absence of senior bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Ravichandran Ashwin, Siraj led the depleted Indian bowling attack with maturity and aggression. His performance was even more remarkable considering the personal tragedy he had endured during the tour, having lost his father.Pant's unbeaten 89-run knock in India's chase was equally crucial. His gritty innings anchored India's successful pursuit of the highest-ever target chased at the Gabba. The victory ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue, showcasing India's resilience and depth.The Gabba triumph highlighted the emergence of a new generation of Indian cricketers. Debutants like Washington Sundar and T. Natarajan, along with other inexperienced players, stepped up to the challenge and performed beyond expectations. This Test showcased the future of Indian cricket, with young players proving their mettle on the biggest stage.India's victory in Brisbane was a testament to their unwavering spirit and refusal to give up, even when faced with adversity. It became a story of triumph over adversity, inspiring fans worldwide. The Gabba Test win will be remembered as one of the most defining moments in the history of the sport, with Siraj and Pant playing pivotal roles.

The 2003-04 India tour of Australia was marked by intense rivalry and verbal sparring even before the first ball was bowled. The Aussies, eager for revenge after their defeat in India in 2001, vowed to unleash "chin-music" on the Indian batsmen, particularly captain Sourav Ganguly.The first Test at the Gabba, Steve Waugh's last series, was crucial for both teams. Ganguly, known for his aggressive leadership, won the toss and surprisingly asked Australia to bat first. Despite rain interruptions, Zaheer Khan's five-wicket haul restricted the hosts to 323.India's response began promisingly with a 61-run opening stand between Aakash Chopra and Virender Sehwag. However, the dismissal of Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar in quick succession left India reeling at 62/3.Enter Sourav Ganguly. With his trademark elegance and aggression, Ganguly counterattacked the Australian bowlers. He drove through the covers, cut through point, and pulled to mid-wicket, showcasing his full range of shots. His fifty came off 74 balls, and his century off 135 deliveries.Ganguly's 146-run partnership with VVS Laxman (75) for the fifth wicket was a masterclass in batting. His 144-run knock was studded with 18 boundaries, earning applause even from some of the Aussie players.The Test ended in a draw, but Ganguly's performance at the Gabba sent a strong message to the Aussies. He had led India from the front, proving that they were not going to be pushovers in the series. This also set the tone for Steve Waugh's farewell, as the former Australian captain had to dig deep into his experience and determination to save the series for his team in the final Test in Sydney.