February 11 holds a special place in Indian cricket history. On this day in 2023, Team India delivered a commanding performance against Australia in the opening Test match played in Nagpur. The match not only marked a massive victory for India but also witnessed a significant personal milestone for Rohit Sharma, who scored his maiden century as India’s Test captain.

India defeated Australia by an innings and 132 runs, registering one of the most one-sided Test wins between the two cricketing giants. The result underlined India’s dominance at home, especially on spin-friendly conditions, and set the tone for the rest of the series.

Australia Collapse to Their Lowest Score in India

Australia struggled throughout the match, but their second innings collapse was particularly alarming. Facing relentless pressure from Indian spinners, the visitors were bowled out for just 91 runs. This remains Australia’s lowest-ever total in Test cricket on Indian soil.

The Indian bowlers exploited the Nagpur pitch brilliantly, offering turn, bounce, and relentless accuracy. Australian batters found it difficult to settle, with wickets falling at regular intervals. The collapse ensured India wrapped up the match quickly and decisively.

Ashwin-Jadeja Spin Duo Dominate

India’s spin twins Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were the architects of Australia’s downfall. Together, they claimed an incredible 15 wickets in the match, completely dismantling the Australian batting lineup.

Ashwin’s guile and variation troubled the batters, while Jadeja’s accuracy and sharp turn made survival nearly impossible. Beyond bowling, both all-rounders contributed with the bat as well, proving invaluable in building India’s massive first-innings total.

Rohit Sharma Leads from the Front

As captain, Rohit Sharma led by example. Walking in during a testing phase of the innings, he displayed patience, control, and authority. His century—his first as India’s Test skipper—was a statement of leadership and responsibility.

Rohit paced his innings beautifully, absorbing pressure early before shifting gears. His knock laid the foundation for India’s big score and ensured the team remained in control throughout the match. The innings was widely praised for its maturity and composure.

Lower Order Adds Crucial Runs

India’s depth in batting once again came to the fore. When top-order wickets fell, the lower middle order stepped up. Ravichandran Ashwin, acting as a nightwatchman, held one end firmly and frustrated the Australian bowlers.

Ravindra Jadeja followed with a well-compiled half-century, extending India’s dominance. Their contributions ensured India crossed the 400-run mark, placing Australia under immense pressure.

Jadeja-Axar Partnership Turns the Game

At one stage, Australia sensed an opening, but that hope was quickly extinguished by a crucial 88-run partnership between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Axar played a fearless innings, scoring 84 runs and counter-attacking the Australian bowlers.

This partnership proved to be a turning point, pushing India into an unassailable position and completely shifting momentum in their favor.

Todd Murphy’s Bright Spot for Australia

Despite Australia’s heavy defeat, off-spinner Todd Murphy emerged as a rare positive. Playing his debut Test, Murphy impressed by claiming seven wickets in India’s first innings. His performance stood out in an otherwise disappointing outing for the visitors.

Murphy’s control and ability to extract turn earned praise from experts and hinted at a promising future.

A One-Sided Contest from Start to Finish

From Rohit Sharma’s commanding century to the spin dominance of Ashwin and Jadeja, India controlled every aspect of the match. Australia’s inability to counter spin and build partnerships proved costly.

Conclusion

India’s emphatic win in Nagpur on this day in 2023 remains a memorable chapter in Test cricket. Rohit Sharma’s maiden hundred as captain, combined with a ruthless bowling display, showcased India’s strength at home. The match not only boosted team morale but also sent a clear message to opponents—India remains nearly unbeatable on home turf.