On this day in 2004, at the Sydney Cricket Ground, India and Australia faced off in a memorable One Day International (ODI) of the VB Series that saw Yuvraj Singh and VVS Laxman scoring brilliant hundreds. Despite their efforts, Australia clinched a thrilling victory by two wickets with just one ball remaining, under the Duckworth-Lewis method.
Yuvraj and Laxman's partnership
Opting to bat first, India suffered an early setback with the dismissal of captain Sourav Ganguly for 1, India found stability through VVS Laxman and Parthiv Patel, who added 62 runs for the second wicket. Following Patel's departure for 28 and soon after Rahul Dravid (12) was dismissed, Yuvraj Singh joined Laxman at the crease. The duo built a solid partnership of 213 runs for the fourth wicket, setting a new record for India against Australia in ODIs.
Yuvraj Singh played an aggressive knock, scoring 139 runs off 122 balls, which included 16 boundaries and two sixes. This was his first century on Australian soil and second hundred in ODIs. At the other end, VVS Laxman provided steady support, remaining unbeaten on 106 runs from 130 deliveries, with five boundaries. Their partnership propelled India to a formidable total of 296 for 4 in 50 overs.
Gilchrist leads the run-chase
In response, Australia faced a revised target of 225 runs from 34 overs due to a rain interruption. Adam Gilchrist spearheaded the chase with a blistering 95 off 72 balls, laying a solid foundation for the hosts. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Australia managed to reach the target, finishing at 225 for 8 in 33.5 overs, and securing a two-wicket victory with one ball to spare.
{{/usCountry}}In response, Australia faced a revised target of 225 runs from 34 overs due to a rain interruption. Adam Gilchrist spearheaded the chase with a blistering 95 off 72 balls, laying a solid foundation for the hosts. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Australia managed to reach the target, finishing at 225 for 8 in 33.5 overs, and securing a two-wicket victory with one ball to spare.
{{/usCountry}}This was the seventh match of the VB Series involving India, Australia and Zimbabwe. After 12 league games, India and Australia played two finals, which the hosts won 2-0.