Team India emerged victorious in a fiercely competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Australians took an early lead in the series by registering a convincing victory on a tough and topsy-turvy surface at Pune. But the Indians bounced back in the second Test match at Bengaluru largely because of sublime bowling performances by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja who have been game-changers with their variations and guile.

With the third Test at Ranchi ending as a draw, it all came down to the picturesque Dharamsala which hosted the series decider. In a low-scoring entertainer, Team India held the advantage for most part despite the Aussies batting first and won the game with utmost ease early on day 4. Let’s take a look at the Combined X1 for the Test Series:

KL Rahul has performed exceptionally well at the top of the order for the Indian team. His aggressive and cautious gameplay makes him a worthy foe for any bowler. The Bangalore-born batsman is 3rd on the list of the highest run scorers with 393 runs in 4 matches. His swashbuckling gameplay makes him a threat for any bowler. His crafty 90 in the second Test at Bengaluru paved the way for setting up a defendable target.

Rahul scored 6 half centuries in the series and though he couldn&#8217;t touch the triple figures was crucial in giving Team India consistent starts.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-117904" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg" alt="Matthew Renshaw" width="600" height="438" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117904" class="wp-caption-text">Matthew Renshaw. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

The 20-year-old Australian batsman has emerged as one of the players to watch out for after his excellent performances at the top of the order for Australia. His monk-like patience and ability to grind it out made him a thorn in the flesh for the Indian bowlers.

Renshaw demonstrated a great deal of maturity in the first test at Pune by refusing to pave in even when he was running out of partners smashing a wonderful knock of 68 runs in 156 balls which guided the Australians to a total of 260. His maturity beyond the years in spite of being wet behind the years has ensured a spot on our list.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125530" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg" alt="Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul India" width="600" height="409" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125530" class="wp-caption-text">Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

Pujara has been India’s talisman with the willow in the rare scenario where even Virat Kohli failed to perform with the bat. He has been hailed as the perfect successor to India&#8217;s legendary batsman Rahul Dravid by fans and experts alike.

The 29-year-old from Rajkot has scored 405 runs in 4 matches at a consistent rate in spite of tough batting conditions and constant pressure from the likes of Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood. Pujara succeeded in sucking the momentum away from the Australians in spite of wickets tumbling down the other end.

His magnificent knock of 202 runs can be hailed as one of the greatest innings ever played by an Indian against Australia.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Steve-Smith-8.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125274" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Steve-Smith-8.jpg" alt="Steve Smith" width="600" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125274" class="wp-caption-text">Steve Smith. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

Steve Smith has been performing at an intensity which can be described as nothing short of matchless in an away series against the Indians who are well-known for their dominance at home. The batsman has been viewed as one of the greatest batsmen in world cricket after smashing 499 runs in 4 matches with the best score of 178 at a consistency which can be matched by none other than Virat Kohli.

Smith has truly performed like a leader stepping up and performing whenever required by his side at an alarming rate. He has surely sent out a message to his critics with these performances.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-123086" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg" alt="Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh" width="600" height="417" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-123086" class="wp-caption-text">Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

Handscomb has been one of Australia’s most consistent performers with the willow with his mature decision making and immense dedication. His performance was a major factor behind Australia escaping with a draw, at Ranchi in a scenario where Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin looked all set to win the game for India.

Handscomb scored 280 runs in 4 matches with the best score of 72 which has been a key factor behind Australia’s fighting performances on tough spinning pitches against the Indians.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-122725" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg" alt="Wriddhiman Saha" width="600" height="465" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-122725" class="wp-caption-text">Wriddhiman Saha. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

The Indian wicketkeeper came off age in this season. He has scored three centuries against three opponents while being spot on. Saha scored a hundred in the Ranchi Test and had a crucial partnership with Jadeja in the first inning at Dharamsala that got Team India the lead.

He is not just safe behind the wickets but his acrobatic catches have ensured the slightest to the thickest of nicks have landed in his gloves and not drained down to the boundary ropes. The runs he has scored at No.7 has also given the team that confidence to play with an extra bowler.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-126227" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg" alt="Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade" width="617" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-126227" class="wp-caption-text">Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

Ravindra Jadeja has been the leading wicket-taker in the Test series having scalped 25 wickets in just 4 matches with 54 maiden overs and an economy rate of 2.17. His accuracy and subtle variations in pace have bamboozled many batsmen and turned the momentum in India’s favour which indicates his impact on the games.

Jaddu has also been a vital contributor with the willow down the order scoring two half centuries which will surely please the Indian team management who were huffing and puffing in search of that perfect all-rounder.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-117628" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg" alt="Ravichandran Ashwin v Australia" width="600" height="434" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117628" class="wp-caption-text">Ravichandran Ashwin. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

Ravichandran Ashwin has been hailed as the greatest off-spinner in world cricket currently. His performances may have been overshadowed by Ravindra Jadeja for a change but his impact has been noteworthy nevertheless.

21 wickets in 4 matches at an economy rate of 2.55 ensured that the Australians were never able to relax and play their natural game because of the continuous pressure generated from both ends by the duo.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125720" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg" alt="Nathan Lyon" width="600" height="465" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125720" class="wp-caption-text">Nathan Lyon. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

Nathan Lyon has been nothing short of an enigma for the Indians. His previous experience as a curator helps him adapt and acclimatize to different conditions which might be a big factor behind his splendid performances on pitches where he enjoys a limited experience.

The 29-year-old snapped 23 wickets at an economy rate of 3.27 and constantly terrorized the Indian batsmen who were expected to be proficient against spin bowling. His partnership with O’ Keefe will surely be one of the highlights of the series.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/02/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-114835" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg" alt="Umesh Yadav" width="600" height="460" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-114835" class="wp-caption-text">Umesh Yadav. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

The speedster who was born in Vidarbha has truly emerged as India’s leader with his exceptional bowling performances against the Aussies who are well-known for their ability to smash pace bowlers.

Yadav’s gameplay has been nothing short of magical the movement he has gained with the new, as well as old ball along with the bounce from the wicket, had the Australians in all sorts of troubles which is evident from the 17 wickets he earned. He bowled to the plan and emerged as a wicket-taker and partnership-breaker for the team this season concluding with 30 wickets in 12 Tests.

<a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125593" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg" alt="Josh Hazlewood" width="600" height="427" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125593" class="wp-caption-text">Josh Hazlewood. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption>

Hazlewood rightly deserves the last spot having contributed with sterling performances for the Australians with the ball. His unnerving accuracy and the ability to bowl consistently at a high pace have earned a lot of praise from Indian batsman KL Rahul who named him as a key threat.

The Aussie might have scalped just 9 wickets in 4 games but the pressure he generated crafted a way for the spinners to take control and pick up wickets on the bounty.

<p>Team India emerged victorious in a fiercely competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Australians took an early lead in the series by registering a convincing victory on a tough and topsy-turvy surface at Pune. But the Indians bounced back in the second Test match at Bengaluru largely because of sublime bowling performances by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja who have been game-changers with their variations and guile.</p>
<p>With the third Test at Ranchi ending as a draw, it all came down to the picturesque Dharamsala which hosted the series decider. In a low-scoring entertainer, Team India held the&nbsp;advantage for most part despite the Aussies batting first and won the game with utmost ease early on day 4. Let’s take a look at the Combined X1 for the Test Series:</p>
<h4><strong>KL Rahul</strong></h4>

<p>KL Rahul has performed exceptionally well at the top of the order for the Indian team. His aggressive and cautious gameplay makes him a worthy foe for any bowler. The Bangalore-born batsman is 3rd on the list of the highest run scorers with 393 runs in 4&nbsp;matches. His swashbuckling gameplay makes him a threat for any bowler. His crafty 90 in the second Test at Bengaluru paved the way for setting up a defendable target.</p>
<p>Rahul scored 6 half centuries in the series and though he couldn’t touch the triple figures was crucial in giving Team India consistent starts.</p>
<h4><strong>Matt Renshaw</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_117904" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-117904" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-117904" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg" alt="Matthew Renshaw" width="600" height="438" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117904" class="wp-caption-text">Matthew Renshaw. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The 20-year-old Australian batsman has emerged as one of the players to watch out for after his excellent performances at the top of the order for Australia. His monk-like patience and ability to grind it out made him a thorn in the flesh for the Indian bowlers.</p>
<p>Renshaw demonstrated a great deal of maturity in the first test at Pune by refusing to pave in even when he was running out of partners smashing a wonderful knock of 68 runs in 156 balls which guided the Australians to a total of 260. His maturity beyond the years in spite of being wet behind the years has ensured a spot on our list.</p>
<h4><strong>Cheteshwara Pujara</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125530" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125530" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-125530" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg" alt="Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul India" width="600" height="409" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125530" class="wp-caption-text">Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Pujara has been India’s talisman with the willow in the rare scenario where even Virat Kohli failed to perform with the bat. He has been hailed as the perfect successor to India’s legendary batsman Rahul Dravid by fans and experts alike.</p>
<p>The 29-year-old from Rajkot has scored 405 runs in 4 matches at a consistent rate in spite of tough batting conditions and constant pressure from the likes of Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood. Pujara succeeded in sucking the momentum away from the Australians in spite of wickets tumbling down the other end.</p>
<p>His magnificent knock of 202 runs can be hailed as one of the greatest innings ever played by an Indian against Australia.</p>
<h4><strong>Steve Smith</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125274" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125274" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Steve-Smith-8.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-125274" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Steve-Smith-8.jpg" alt="Steve Smith" width="600" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125274" class="wp-caption-text">Steve Smith. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Steve Smith has been performing at an intensity which can be described as nothing short of matchless in an away series against the Indians who are well-known for their dominance at home. The batsman has been viewed as one of the greatest batsmen in world cricket after smashing 499 runs in 4&nbsp;matches with the best score of 178 at a consistency which can be matched by none other than Virat Kohli.</p>
<p>Smith has truly performed like a leader stepping up and performing whenever required by his side at an alarming rate. He has surely sent out a message to his critics with these performances.</p>
<h4><strong>Peter Handscomb</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_123086" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-123086" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-123086" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg" alt="Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh" width="600" height="417" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-123086" class="wp-caption-text">Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Handscomb has been one of Australia’s most consistent performers with the willow with his mature decision making and immense dedication. His performance was a major factor behind Australia escaping with a draw, at Ranchi in a scenario where Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin looked all set to win the game for India.</p>
<p>Handscomb scored 280 runs in 4&nbsp;matches with the best score of 72 which has been a key factor behind Australia’s fighting performances on tough spinning pitches against the Indians.</p>
<h4><strong>Wriddhiman Saha</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_122725" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-122725" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-122725" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg" alt="Wriddhiman Saha" width="600" height="465" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-122725" class="wp-caption-text">Wriddhiman Saha. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The Indian wicketkeeper came off age in this season. He has scored three centuries against three opponents while being spot on. Saha scored a hundred in the Ranchi Test and had a crucial partnership with Jadeja in the first inning at Dharamsala that got Team India the lead.</p>
<p>He is not just safe behind the wickets but his acrobatic catches have ensured the slightest to the thickest of nicks have landed in his gloves and not drained down to the boundary ropes. The runs he has scored at No.7 has also given the team that confidence to play with an extra bowler.</p>
<h4><strong>Ravindra Jadeja</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_126227" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126227" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-126227" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg" alt="Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade" width="617" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-126227" class="wp-caption-text">Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Ravindra Jadeja has been the leading wicket-taker in the Test series having scalped 25 wickets in just 4 matches with 54 maiden overs and an economy rate of 2.17. His accuracy and subtle variations in pace have bamboozled many batsmen and turned the momentum in India’s favour which indicates his impact on the games.</p>
<p>Jaddu has also been a vital contributor with the willow down the order scoring two half centuries which will surely please the Indian team management who were huffing and puffing in search of that perfect all-rounder.</p>
<h4><strong>Ravichandran Ashwin</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_117628" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-117628" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-117628" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg" alt="Ravichandran Ashwin v Australia" width="600" height="434" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117628" class="wp-caption-text">Ravichandran Ashwin. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has been hailed as the greatest off-spinner in world cricket currently. His performances may have been overshadowed by Ravindra Jadeja for a change but his impact has been noteworthy nevertheless.</p>
<p>21 wickets in 4 matches at an economy rate of 2.55 ensured that the Australians were never able to relax and play their natural game because of the continuous pressure generated from both ends by the duo.</p>
<h4><strong>Nathan Lyon</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125720" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125720" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-125720" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg" alt="Nathan Lyon" width="600" height="465" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125720" class="wp-caption-text">Nathan Lyon. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Nathan Lyon has been nothing short of an enigma for the Indians. His previous experience as a curator helps him adapt and acclimatize to different conditions which might be a big factor behind his splendid performances on pitches where he enjoys a limited experience.</p>
<p>The 29-year-old snapped 23 wickets at an economy rate of 3.27 and constantly terrorized the Indian batsmen who were expected to be proficient against spin bowling. His partnership with O’ Keefe will surely be one of the highlights of the series.</p>
<h4><strong>Umesh Yadav</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_114835" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-114835" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/02/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-114835" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg" alt="Umesh Yadav" width="600" height="460" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-114835" class="wp-caption-text">Umesh Yadav. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The speedster who was born in Vidarbha has truly emerged as India’s leader with his exceptional bowling performances against the Aussies who are well-known for their ability to smash pace bowlers.</p>
<p>Yadav’s gameplay has been nothing short of magical the movement he has gained with the new, as well as old ball along with the bounce from the wicket, had the Australians in all sorts of troubles which is evident from the 17 wickets he earned. He bowled to the plan and emerged as a wicket-taker and partnership-breaker for the team this season concluding with 30 wickets in 12 Tests.</p>
<h4><strong>Josh Hazlewood</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125593" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125593" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-125593" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg" alt="Josh Hazlewood" width="600" height="427" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125593" class="wp-caption-text">Josh Hazlewood. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Hazlewood rightly deserves the last spot having contributed with sterling performances for the Australians with the ball. His unnerving accuracy and the ability to bowl consistently at a high pace have earned a lot of praise from Indian batsman KL Rahul who named him as a key threat.</p>
<p>The Aussie might have scalped just 9 wickets in 4 games but the pressure he generated crafted a way for the spinners to take control and pick up wickets on the bounty.</p>

<p>Team India emerged victorious in a fiercely competitive Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Australians took an early lead in the series by registering a convincing victory on a tough and topsy-turvy surface at Pune. But the Indians bounced back in the second Test match at Bengaluru largely because of sublime bowling performances by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja who have been game-changers with their variations and guile.</p>
<p>With the third Test at Ranchi ending as a draw, it all came down to the picturesque Dharamsala which hosted the series decider. In a low-scoring entertainer, Team India held the advantage for most part despite the Aussies batting first and won the game with utmost ease early on day 4. Let’s take a look at the Combined X1 for the Test Series:</p>
<h4><strong>KL Rahul</strong></h4>

<p>KL Rahul has performed exceptionally well at the top of the order for the Indian team. His aggressive and cautious gameplay makes him a worthy foe for any bowler. The Bangalore-born batsman is 3rd on the list of the highest run scorers with 393 runs in 4 matches. His swashbuckling gameplay makes him a threat for any bowler. His crafty 90 in the second Test at Bengaluru paved the way for setting up a defendable target.</p>
<p>Rahul scored 6 half centuries in the series and though he couldn&#8217;t touch the triple figures was crucial in giving Team India consistent starts.</p>
<h4><strong>Matt Renshaw</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_117904" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-117904" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-117904" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Matthew-Renshaw.jpg" alt="Matthew Renshaw" width="600" height="438" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117904" class="wp-caption-text">Matthew Renshaw. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The 20-year-old Australian batsman has emerged as one of the players to watch out for after his excellent performances at the top of the order for Australia. His monk-like patience and ability to grind it out made him a thorn in the flesh for the Indian bowlers.</p>
<p>Renshaw demonstrated a great deal of maturity in the first test at Pune by refusing to pave in even when he was running out of partners smashing a wonderful knock of 68 runs in 156 balls which guided the Australians to a total of 260. His maturity beyond the years in spite of being wet behind the years has ensured a spot on our list.</p>
<h4><strong>Cheteshwara Pujara</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125530" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125530" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125530" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Cheteshwar-Pujara-and-KL-Rahul.jpg" alt="Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul India" width="600" height="409" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125530" class="wp-caption-text">Cheteshwar Pujara and KL Rahul. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Pujara has been India’s talisman with the willow in the rare scenario where even Virat Kohli failed to perform with the bat. He has been hailed as the perfect successor to India&#8217;s legendary batsman Rahul Dravid by fans and experts alike.</p>
<p>The 29-year-old from Rajkot has scored 405 runs in 4 matches at a consistent rate in spite of tough batting conditions and constant pressure from the likes of Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood. Pujara succeeded in sucking the momentum away from the Australians in spite of wickets tumbling down the other end.</p>
<p>His magnificent knock of 202 runs can be hailed as one of the greatest innings ever played by an Indian against Australia.</p>
<h4><strong>Steve Smith</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125274" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125274" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Steve-Smith-8.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125274" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Steve-Smith-8.jpg" alt="Steve Smith" width="600" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125274" class="wp-caption-text">Steve Smith. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Steve Smith has been performing at an intensity which can be described as nothing short of matchless in an away series against the Indians who are well-known for their dominance at home. The batsman has been viewed as one of the greatest batsmen in world cricket after smashing 499 runs in 4 matches with the best score of 178 at a consistency which can be matched by none other than Virat Kohli.</p>
<p>Smith has truly performed like a leader stepping up and performing whenever required by his side at an alarming rate. He has surely sent out a message to his critics with these performances.</p>
<h4><strong>Peter Handscomb</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_123086" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-123086" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-123086" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Peter-Handscomb-Shaun-Marsh.jpg" alt="Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh" width="600" height="417" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-123086" class="wp-caption-text">Peter Handscomb &amp; Shaun Marsh. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Handscomb has been one of Australia’s most consistent performers with the willow with his mature decision making and immense dedication. His performance was a major factor behind Australia escaping with a draw, at Ranchi in a scenario where Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin looked all set to win the game for India.</p>
<p>Handscomb scored 280 runs in 4 matches with the best score of 72 which has been a key factor behind Australia’s fighting performances on tough spinning pitches against the Indians.</p>
<h4><strong>Wriddhiman Saha</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_122725" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-122725" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-122725" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Wriddhiman-Saha-1.jpg" alt="Wriddhiman Saha" width="600" height="465" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-122725" class="wp-caption-text">Wriddhiman Saha. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The Indian wicketkeeper came off age in this season. He has scored three centuries against three opponents while being spot on. Saha scored a hundred in the Ranchi Test and had a crucial partnership with Jadeja in the first inning at Dharamsala that got Team India the lead.</p>
<p>He is not just safe behind the wickets but his acrobatic catches have ensured the slightest to the thickest of nicks have landed in his gloves and not drained down to the boundary ropes. The runs he has scored at No.7 has also given the team that confidence to play with an extra bowler.</p>
<h4><strong>Ravindra Jadeja</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_126227" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126227" style="width: 617px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-126227" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravindra-Jadeja-and-Matthew-Wade.jpg" alt="Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade" width="617" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-126227" class="wp-caption-text">Ravindra Jadeja and Matthew Wade (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Ravindra Jadeja has been the leading wicket-taker in the Test series having scalped 25 wickets in just 4 matches with 54 maiden overs and an economy rate of 2.17. His accuracy and subtle variations in pace have bamboozled many batsmen and turned the momentum in India’s favour which indicates his impact on the games.</p>
<p>Jaddu has also been a vital contributor with the willow down the order scoring two half centuries which will surely please the Indian team management who were huffing and puffing in search of that perfect all-rounder.</p>
<h4><strong>Ravichandran Ashwin</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_117628" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-117628" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-117628" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Ravichandran-Ashwin.jpg" alt="Ravichandran Ashwin v Australia" width="600" height="434" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-117628" class="wp-caption-text">Ravichandran Ashwin. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Ravichandran Ashwin has been hailed as the greatest off-spinner in world cricket currently. His performances may have been overshadowed by Ravindra Jadeja for a change but his impact has been noteworthy nevertheless.</p>
<p>21 wickets in 4 matches at an economy rate of 2.55 ensured that the Australians were never able to relax and play their natural game because of the continuous pressure generated from both ends by the duo.</p>
<h4><strong>Nathan Lyon</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125720" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125720" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125720" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Nathan-Lyon-1.jpg" alt="Nathan Lyon" width="600" height="465" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125720" class="wp-caption-text">Nathan Lyon. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Nathan Lyon has been nothing short of an enigma for the Indians. His previous experience as a curator helps him adapt and acclimatize to different conditions which might be a big factor behind his splendid performances on pitches where he enjoys a limited experience.</p>
<p>The 29-year-old snapped 23 wickets at an economy rate of 3.27 and constantly terrorized the Indian batsmen who were expected to be proficient against spin bowling. His partnership with O’ Keefe will surely be one of the highlights of the series.</p>
<h4><strong>Umesh Yadav</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_114835" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-114835" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/02/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-114835" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Umesh-Yadav-3.jpg" alt="Umesh Yadav" width="600" height="460" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-114835" class="wp-caption-text">Umesh Yadav. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>The speedster who was born in Vidarbha has truly emerged as India’s leader with his exceptional bowling performances against the Aussies who are well-known for their ability to smash pace bowlers.</p>
<p>Yadav’s gameplay has been nothing short of magical the movement he has gained with the new, as well as old ball along with the bounce from the wicket, had the Australians in all sorts of troubles which is evident from the 17 wickets he earned. He bowled to the plan and emerged as a wicket-taker and partnership-breaker for the team this season concluding with 30 wickets in 12 Tests.</p>
<h4><strong>Josh Hazlewood</strong></h4>
<figure id="attachment_125593" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-125593" style="width: 600px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2017/03/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-125593" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/Josh-Hazlewood-1.jpg" alt="Josh Hazlewood" width="600" height="427" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px"></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-125593" class="wp-caption-text">Josh Hazlewood. (Photo Source: BCCI)</figcaption></figure>
<p>Hazlewood rightly deserves the last spot having contributed with sterling performances for the Australians with the ball. His unnerving accuracy and the ability to bowl consistently at a high pace have earned a lot of praise from Indian batsman KL Rahul who named him as a key threat.</p>
<p>The Aussie might have scalped just 9 wickets in 4 games but the pressure he generated crafted a way for the spinners to take control and pick up wickets on the bounty.</p>

The best picks for each spot from either team.

India v Australia Test series: Combined XI

Team India emerged victorious in a fiercely competitive Test Border-Gavaskar series. The Australians took an early lead in the series by registering a co