As India gears up for the Boxing Day Test against South Africa at Centurion, the team brings with it a decade-long transformation in fortunes during this festive fixture. Since 2014, India has remained undefeated in Boxing Day Tests, showcasing a remarkable shift in performance from the earlier years.
India’s Boxing Day Tests Win/Loss Record:
- Played: 17
- Won: 4
- Lost: 10
- Drawn: 3
- Last Result: Beat South Africa by 113 runs (Centurion, 2021)
Best Indian Batting Performances in Boxing Day Tests:
- Virender Sehwag: 195(223) – 2003 vs Aus (Melbourne)
- Virat Kohli: 169(272) – 2014 vs Australia (Melbourne)
- Ajinkya Rahane: 147(171) – 2014 vs Australia (Melbourne)
India Boxing Day Results
| Year | Opponent | Result | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Australia | Match Drawn | Melbourne |
| 1987 | West Indies | Match Drawn | Eden Gardens |
| 1991 | Australia | Lost by 8 wickets | Melbourne |
| 1992 | South Africa | Lost by 9 wickets | Gqeberha |
| 1996 | South Africa | Lost by 328 runs | Durban |
| 1998 | New Zealand | Lost by 4 wickets | Wellington |
| 1999 | Australia | Lost by 180 runs | Melbourne |
| 2003 | Australia | Lost by 9 wickets | Melbourne |
| 2006 | South Africa | Lost by 174 runs | Durban |
| 2007 | Australia | Lost by 337 runs | Melbourne |
| 2009 | South Africa | Won by 87 runs | Durban |
| 2011 | Australia | Lost by 122 runs | Melbourne |
| 2013 | South Africa | Lost by 10 wickets | Durban |
| 2014 | Australia | Match Drawn | Melbourne |
| 2018 | Australia | Won by 137 runs | Melbourne |
| 2020 | Australia | Won by 8 wickets | Melbourne |
| 2021 | South Africa | Won by 113 runs | Centurion |
India’s Boxing Day Test Results showcase a mix of draws, losses, and notable victories, reflecting the team’s evolving performance in this historic cricketing tradition.
Best Bowling Spells by Indians in Boxing Day Tests:
- Jasprit Bumrah: 6/33 – 2018 vs Australia (Melbourne)
- Ravindra Jadeja: 6/138 – 2013 vs South Africa (Durban)
- Anil Kumble: 6/176 – 2003 vs Aus (Melbourne)
The Transformational Decade: From Struggles to Success:
Before 2014, India’s performance in Boxing Day Tests faced challenges, marked by a win-loss record that leaned heavily towards the latter. However, the team’s resurgence in the past decade has not only broken the jinx but also delivered memorable victories.
Looking Ahead: Anticipation for Another Boxing Day Triumph:
As India steps onto the field at Centurion for the 18th Boxing Day Test, the anticipation is high for another spirited performance. With a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents, the team aims to extend its unbeaten streak and add another chapter to its evolving legacy in this historic cricketing tradition. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding drama and individual brilliance that characterize Boxing Day Tests.
