Test Victories over Australia which changed the mindset of Indian Cricket

#4 The bounce back at Perth in 2008

India became the first Asian side to beat the Aussies at The WACA, Perth

The series had taken an ugly turn after the Monkey Gate incident and the poor umpiring of Steve Bucknor in Sydney. The Indian media, fans and cricket fraternity were animated, and the onus was on team India to give a befitting reply on the ground.

And the team fittingly did so, on a ground known for its vicious pace. The senior pros Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman rose to the occasion, batting beautifully to post a formidable 412 run-target for the home side. Captain Anil Kumble claimed his 600th Test wicket in the form of Andrew Symonds. RP Singh and Irfan Pathan bowled beautifully to hand India a 72-run victory.

It was more of a moral victory for the Indians, as they denied the Australians a potential world record 17th consecutive victory. Harbhajan Singh sprinted into the ground with the Indian tricolour, paving the way for jubilant celebrations.

This victory signified the 'Spirit of New India', a side that was not to be daunted by the audacity of its opposition, whatever might be the situation. This victory certainly steered the mindset of the team towards greater glories, which were achieved by the historic series win against the Kiwis in the next year.