India’s bowlers showcased a clinical performance on Day 1 of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, putting Australia on the back foot early in the Test. The relentless Indian pace attack exposed Australia’s batting vulnerabilities, reminiscent of some of their worst collapses in Test history.
Australia’s Lowest Test Scores at Home
Australia’s batting collapses in challenging conditions have been a recurring theme in their Test history. Their lowest-ever team score on home soil is 42/10, recorded during the 1888 Ashes series against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
| Team Score | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42/10 | England | Sydney | 1888 |
| 58/10 | England | Brisbane | 1936 |
| 76/10 | West Indies | Perth | 1984 |
| 80/10 | England | Sydney | 1936 |
| 82/10 | England | Sydney | 1888 |
| 82/10 | West Indies | Adelaide | 1951 |
What Happened in the 1888 Ashes?
In the infamous Test match in 1888, Australia faced England at the Sydney Cricket Ground from February 10 to 15. The match ended in a crushing defeat for the hosts, as they were bowled out for just 42 runs in their second innings, chasing a target of 209. England’s bowlers, particularly Peel and Lohmann, dismantled the Australian lineup, taking 18 wickets between them.
The Collapse in Numbers
- Top Performer for England: George Lohmann (7/20 in the second innings)
- Conditions: Seaming wicket, favoring swing and seam bowlers
- Match Result: England won by 126 runs
A Reminder for Australia in Perth
As the Border-Gavaskar series unfolds, Australia’s current lineup will need to avoid repeating history against India’s potent bowling attack, especially on fast, bouncy tracks like Perth. India will look to capitalize on their early momentum and push for a commanding position in the match.