India’s series win in Australia is a triumph of courage and faith over experience

By K.R. Nayar

The Indian team made up of six cricketers who haven’t played over three Test matches proved that determination to overcome the  humiliation of getting bowled out for 36 has no boundaries. Even an opponent with most of their players carrying an experience of over 50 Tests could be conquered to win a series

The triumphant Indian team with the Border-Gavaskar trophy 

India's unbelievable win over Australia at the Gabba to clinch the series 2-1 is an inspiring tale that can be narrated as an instance of a team fighting against all odds to emerge triumphantly. A big salute to each one of the players with a message that they have become the heroes of Indian cricket forever. They deserve a place in every cricket lover's memory just like people remember the heroes who won India the 1983 World Cup.

To rise from a 36 all out and a humiliating eight-wicket defeat in the first Test at Adelaide and then overpower those who humiliated them is nothing but one of the finest comebacks in cricket history. They proved that if a team can keep their heads high and fight with resolve then a setback is nothing but a springboard to rise and conquer.

To chase a target of 328 and win, that too at Gabba on a last day’s wicket, is an exhibition of grit and fearlessness. The fact that it was achieved when many of India's top players were forced to sit out due to injuries makes it even more special.  A team with players who are willing to put their hands up and say we are ready to do the impossible is a blessed one. It is here that Washington Sundar and T Natarajan, playing only in their first Test match, deserve a pat on their backs.  Everyone marched out for the battle unitedly pulling up their socks and pants while (Rishabh) Pant ensured that the team reaches the tough target. 

Rishabh Pant... the hero being cheered

What also deserves a special mention is the enormous talent in India that is waiting in the wings.  Players who replaced the star players performed with no fear or nervousness. It is here that one must thank the Indian Premier League for not only unearthing talent but also making them battle hard.

Team India’s support staff led by coach Ravi Shastri who transformed this team into winners also deserves applause.  It’s time that those who troll Shastri, making a joke of his approach, appreciate the fact that he has the ability to talk and inspire players. All that players need is the confidence and trust in them to execute their skills.

Social media is now busy demanding that Ajinkya Rahane be appointed as the Test team skipper in place of Virat Kohli. A good captain is one who can garner his resources to win matches. Rahane has proved that he has that ability.  For most cricket followers, a winning result is what matters. They are not concerned whether the captain is a huge run-getter or not. Maybe that is why this demand for a change of guard.

Another notable aspect of this Indian team is that six of their players in this Test match are those who haven’t played more than three Test matches. Shubman Gill and Mohammad Siraj have played just three Test matches, Shardul Thakur and Navdeep Saini only two Tests, while Natarajan and Sundar are debutants. They emerged victorious over an Australian team with the majority of their players carrying an experience of over 50 Test matches!

Undoubtedly, this is a triumph of courage and faith over experience. This win also proves that no one is indispensable and that there is a huge pool of talented youngsters in India waiting for an opportunity to perform. In this series, India’s new players have scored over the Warners, Smiths, Cummins' and Starcs to inspire every budding cricketer in India in the years to come.