Sydney: India's hopes of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final were significantly impacted by the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, as Australia defeated India by 6 wickets in the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy here on Sunday.
Bumrah, sidelined due to a back spasm, left a significant gap in India’s bowling attack, and despite strong individual performances, the visitors fell short, missing out on the WTC final for the first time since the tournament’s inception in 2019.
Australia's victory means they win the series 3-1, reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years. Their win also secures a place in the WTC final against South Africa, marking their second consecutive appearance in the final after defeating India in the 2023 title clash.
India’s batting frailties were on full display as they were bowled out for just 185 in the first innings and 157 in the second. While their bowlers fought back, dismissing Australia for 181 in the first innings, the lack of Bumrah’s experience and pace in the second innings made a difference.
Australia, facing early setbacks in their chase, eventually chased down the target with 6 wickets to spare on the final day. Pat Cummins took 3 wickets for 44, whilec Sott Boland was exceptional with 6 wickets for 45, finishing with 10 wickets in the match.
Usman Khawaja’s 41 and crucial contributions from Travis Head and Beau Webster saw Australia across the line, securing the series and a place in the WTC final against South Africa.
