India's Most Iconic Test Victories on Foreign Soil in the 21st Century

#2 India vs Australia, The Adelaide Oval, 2003

Dravid and Laxman were the driving factors behind India's win at The Adelaide Oval

This victory is widely regarded as the best Indian victory Down Under. It was a high scoring thriller as India emerged victorious despite a first innings score of 556 by the Kangaroos. A brilliant double century by Ricky Ponting, along with contributions from Justin Langer and Simon Katich powered Australia to the giant score. Anil Kumble claimed a five-wicket haul.

India started off in an underwhelming fashion, reeling at 85-4. However, what followed next was a display of immense grit, class and elegance as VVS Laxman joined hands with his long-time partner Rahul Dravid to stitch a match-winning 333-run partnership for the fifth wicket. They wore out and tore apart the Australian bowling attack, with their relentless tenacity, unerring focus, graceful shots and pristine timing.

It seemed to be a blast from the past from the duo, who had battled out the Aussies at the Eden Garden in a similar fashion. Laxman was dismissed for 148, while Dravid carried his bat across the innings, hitting a prodigious double century, and ensuring that India do not concede a big lead.

Australia came out all guns blazing, but the substandard shot selection and a six-wicket haul by Ajit Agarkar limited them to 196. India had to chase 230 for victory, with a day and 10 overs in hand.

Rahul Dravid emerged as the hero again, who with an impressive 72*, along with brisk contributions from Tendulkar and Laxman chased down the score comfortably. Dravid rightly hit the winning runs, with India defeating Australia in their first home match in five years, that too, from a formidable situation.

Dravid was rightly adjudged the Man of the Match for his twin knocks under pressure. Australia won the third match, drawing the fourth, ensuring the series was levelled by 1-1

---

Result- India won by 4 wickets

Man of the Match- Rahul Dravid (233 & 72*)

Other Key Performers- VVS Laxman (148 & 32), Ajit Agarkar (8/160), Anil Kumble (6/212)