We’ve finally made it to our final trip through the history of Australia cricket. This time, it is the 21s century, a decade of very high highs, some lows, and some massive controversies and tragedy.
Early 2000s: Continuation of Dominance
The early 2000s were a period of remarkable dominance for Australian cricket, characterized by an impressive string of Test series victories and the retention of the Ashes in 2001. Under the leadership of Steve Waugh and later Ricky Ponting, Australia established itself as the preeminent force in world cricket, boasting a team rich in talent and experience.
Australia’s Test series performances during this period were nothing short of extraordinary, with their only lost test series being a come-from-behind victory by India in India. The second test is one all Australian cricket fans old enough to remember will shudder when doing so.
Having asked India to follow on VVS Laxman scored 281 and Rahul Dravid 180 in a partnership of 376 which helped India to a score of 7/657 declared. This gave Australia a chase of 384, which they never came close to.
It was an amazing victory by the India team, but, at that time, it required a team to do amazing things to beat the Australia team. This loss, ended a sequence of 16 straight test victories, a record at the time.
While that test was a lowlight, one of the highlights was the retention of the Ashes in 2001. The series, played in England, saw Australia deliver a commanding performance, winning 4-1. This victory not only underscored Australia’s superiority but also solidified their dominance in the historic rivalry against England.
Steve Waugh’s leadership was pivotal in maintaining Australia’s edge against England. His aggressive captaincy, coupled with his ability to inspire his teammates, set the tone for Australia’s approach to Test cricket.
As of the current date (2024), this would be the last time Australia would win a series in England.
The 4-1 victory against England in England was mirrored by the 4-1 victory against England in Australia. During this test series, Steve Waugh was out of form, and questions as to whether he should retire were never far away.
That is, until Steve Waugh hit a cover drive through the off-side of the final ball of the day’s play in the fifth test in Sydney, in a moment that would be remembered forever by those who saw it.
Ironically, this was the test that Australia lost in that series.
Ricky Ponting, 2015 Tourism Victoria, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ricky Ponting, who succeeded Waugh as captain, continued the legacy of excellence. Ponting’s batting prowess and tactical acumen were crucial in sustaining Australia’s dominance. His aggressive style and ability to lead by example made him a formidable captain. Ponting’s contributions with the bat were significant, including his monumental double century (257) against India in the 2003-04 series, which highlighted his ability to perform on the biggest stages.
Glenn McGrath’s relentless accuracy and ability to exploit any conditions made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world. His knack for taking crucial wickets, often providing early breakthroughs, was a cornerstone of Australia’s success. McGrath’s consistent performances ensured that Australia always had a potent weapon in their bowling arsenal.
Australia’s Performance in the 2003 Cricket World Cup
The 2003 Cricket World Cup, held in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya, saw Australia enter as the defending champions. Under the leadership of Ricky Ponting, Australia delivered an extraordinary performance throughout the tournament, ultimately winning the World Cup without losing a single match.
Australia’s best performance, fittingly enough, came in the final against India. Batting first, Australia posted a formidable total of 359 for 2, driven by Ricky Ponting’s spectacular unbeaten 140 off 121 balls and Damien Martyn’s 88 not out. Ponting’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive, yet controlled batting, and it set a daunting target for the Indian team.
Brett Lee, 2008 Privatemusings, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The bowling unit, led by Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee, complemented the batting efforts perfectly. McGrath’s disciplined line and length, coupled with Lee’s express pace, ensured that India was never in the chase. McGrath’s figures of 3 for 52 in the final epitomized his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. Australia bowled out India for 234, securing a comprehensive 125-run victory and their third World Cup title.
Late 2000s: Another Record and Some Greats Retire
The late 2000s were marked by Australia’s continued dominance in international cricket, highlighted by their victory in the 2007 Cricket World Cup and their overwhelming success in Test cricket, including the 2006-07 Ashes whitewash. This period saw outstanding contributions from key players like Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden, and Brett Lee, who played pivotal roles in sustaining Australia’s cricketing supremacy.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
After 16 years of dominance against the old enemy England, Australia began the 2005 series in England justifiably confident. A 239 run victory in the first test at Lord’s seemed to indicate the confidence was especially well placed.
But then came an errant cricket ball, and a surprisingly coin toss call.
Glenn McGrath, in a test-morning training run, stepped on a cricket ball and went down injured, unable to take his place in the side. Despite this, when Ricky Ponting won the toss, he bowled first, and England went haywire, scoring 407 at more than 5 runs an over before Bazball was ever a thing.
Always playing catch up, Australia nearly stole the match, losing by two runs as their final two wickets managed to put on 104 of the 107 runs needed when the eighth wicket fell.
Australia almost lost the next match, but managed to keep to a draw thanks to a gutsy Ponting century, and a 3 wicket win to the English meant that Australia had to win the final test to draw the series and retain the Ashes.
It wasn’t to be. The game ended in a tame draw thanks to a number of rain delays, but England were able to celebrate victory in one of the greatest test series that have ever been played.
This series loss set something in motion in the Australian team. They defeated a World XI in a test match, won a series against the West Indies 3-0 and South Africa 2-0 during the 2005/06 home season, then defeated South Africa in the return series in South Africa 3-0, defeated Bangladesh 2-0, then smashed England 5-0, defeated Sri Lanka 2-0, and won the first two tests against India in India.
Were it not for the single draw in the South Africa series in 2005/06, Australia would have won 21 tests in a row. As it was, they equalled their record of 16 test victories in a row of earlier in the decade.
And once again, it was India that broke the record, although this time, Australia would win the series 2-1.
Australia was still on top of the cricket world, but the retirements of Damien Martyn after the second test of the 2006/07 Ashes series, Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, Justin Langer and Damien Martyn at the end of that series, and then Adam Gilchrist at the end of the home series against India in 2007/08 and Matthew Hayden at the end of the home series against South Africa in 2008/09 really started to take effect.
Cracks began to appear. A 2-0 series loss against India in India in 2008/09, a 2-1 series loss against South Africa at home in 2008/09, and a 2-1 Ashes loss in England in 2009 showed that perhaps Australia’s fall from the top was beginning to manifest.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 2000 and 2010
During this decade, Australia played their first tests against Bangladesh. Overall, Australia played 115 tests, winning 79, losing 18 and drawing 18. Of these, 25 were played against England (15/6/4), 20 were played against India (7/7/6), and 18 were played against South Africa (13/4/1). Australia also played tests against West Indies (18: 15/1/2), New Zealand (13: 9/0/4), Pakistan (7: 7/0/0), Sri Lanka (7: 6/0/1), Bangladesh (4: 4/0/0), Zimbabwe (2: 2/0/0) and the ICC World XI (1: 1/0/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
RT Ponting : 107 Tests, 9458 runs; average of 58.38, 32 centuries, high score of 257
ML Hayden : 96 Tests, 8364 runs; average of 52.93, 29 centuries, high score of 380
JL Langer : 76 Tests, 5994 runs; average of 48.73, 18 centuries, high score of 250
AC Gilchrist : 91 Tests, 5130 runs; average of 46.63, 16 centuries, high score of 204*
DR Martyn : 60 Tests, 4089 runs; average of 48.67, 13 centuries, high score of 165
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
SK Warne : 65 Tests, 357 wickets; average of 25.17, 21 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/94
B Lee : 75 Tests, 303 wickets; average of 31.27, 9 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/30
GD McGrath : 66 Tests, 297 wickets; average of 20.53, 14 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/24
JN Gillespie : 57 Tests, 209 wickets; average of 27.09, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/40
SCG MacGill : 32 Tests, 149 wickets; average of 31.28, 9 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/108
Winning the 2007 Cricket World Cup and Key Performances
The 2007 Cricket World Cup, held in the West Indies, saw Australia once again emerge as the dominant force in ODI cricket. Under the leadership of Ricky Ponting, Australia clinched their third consecutive World Cup title, further cementing their legacy in the sport. The team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, showcasing their exceptional skill, strategy, and consistency.
Once again, one of Australia’s best allround efforts was in the final, this time against Sri Lanka. Batting first, Adam Gilchrist produced one of the most memorable innings in World Cup history. His blistering 149 off 104 balls, including 13 fours and 8 sixes, and set the foundation for Australia’s imposing total of 281 for 4 in a rain-shortened match. Gilchrist’s explosive batting was complemented by strong contributions from the middle order, ensuring Australia had a formidable total to defend.
On the bowling front, Glenn McGrath, in his final international tournament, was outstanding. McGrath’s experience and precision were crucial in breaking crucial partnerships and maintaining pressure on the opposition.
He finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history.
Brett Lee’s express pace and Shaun Tait’s aggressive bowling also played key roles in Australia’s successful campaign.
Contributions of Players Like Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden, and Brett Lee
Several players made significant contributions to Australia’s sustained success during the late 2000s. Adam Gilchrist continued to be a game-changer with his aggressive batting and exceptional wicketkeeping. His ability to turn matches with his explosive batting at the top of the order made him a vital asset in both Test and ODI formats.
Matthew Hayden, known for his powerful and dominating batting style, was another key figure. Hayden’s ability to score big runs and set the foundation for the innings was crucial in many of Australia’s victories. His partnerships with fellow opener Justin Langer were particularly impactful, often providing Australia with solid starts.
Brett Lee’s pace and aggression were instrumental in Australia’s bowling attack. Lee’s ability to bowl consistently at high speeds and take crucial wickets in pressure situations made him one of the most feared fast bowlers in the world. His partnership with Glenn McGrath created a formidable bowling duo that terrorized batting lineups globally.
The Stats: Australian One Day Stats between 2000 and 2010
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 268 games, winning 202, losing 66 with 3 tied and 12 no results. Of these, 46 were played against India (29/12/0/5), 44 were played against New Zealand (30/11/0/3), and 38 were played against South Africa (20/16/2/0). Australia also played matches against England (34: 25/7/1/1), Pakistan (29: 21/7/0/1), West Indies (28: 22/5/0/1), Sri Lanka (25: 18/7/0/0), Bangladesh (14: 13/1/0/0), Zimbabwe (12: 11/0/0/1), ICC World XI (3: 3/0/0/0), Kenya (3: 3/0/0/0), Netherlands (2: 2/0/0/0), Scotland (2: 2/0/0/0), Ireland (1: 1/0/0/0), Namibia (1: 1/0/0/0) and USA (1: 1/0/0/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
RT Ponting : 239 ODIs, 9103 runs; average of 44.18, a strike rate of 84.44, with 23 centuries and a high score of 164
AC Gilchrist : 211 ODIs, 7243 runs; average of 36.58, a strike rate of 100.54, with 11 centuries and a high score of 172
ML Hayden : 148 ODIs, 5847 runs; average of 45.32, a strike rate of 80.82, with 10 centuries and a high score of 181*
MJ Clarke : 163 ODIs, 4945 runs; average of 42.62, a strike rate of 77.64, with 4 centuries and a high score of 130
A Symonds : 189 ODIs, 4930 runs; average of 39.75, a strike rate of 92.79, with 6 centuries and a high score of 156
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
B Lee : 186 ODIs, 324 wickets; average of 23.01, an economy rate of 4.71, 9 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/22
GD McGrath : 149 ODIs, 234 wickets; average of 20.28, an economy rate of 3.78, 4 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/15
NW Bracken : 116 ODIs, 174 wickets; average of 24.36, an economy rate of 4.41, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/47
GB Hogg : 116 ODIs, 153 wickets; average of 25.94, an economy rate of 4.52, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/32
A Symonds : 189 ODIs, 126 wickets; average of 37.46, an economy rate of 4.99, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/18
Early 2010s: Transition Period
The early 2010s were a period of significant transition for Australian cricket, marked by leadership changes, mixed performances in Test and ODI series, and the emergence of new talents who would shape the future of Australian cricket.
The decade began with Ricky Ponting at the helm, a captain who had led Australia through a period of incredible success. However, following a series of challenging results, including the 2010-11 Ashes series, Ponting stepped down as captain in 2011. Under his leadership, Australia had enjoyed numerous victories, but the loss of the Ashes to England on home soil was a significant blow, highlighting the need for a change in direction.
Michael Clarke, 2009 self, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
Michael Clarke took over the captaincy, bringing a fresh perspective and new energy to the team. Clarke’s leadership style was characterized by his tactical acumen, innovative approach, and ability to inspire younger players. His tenure as captain saw Australia undergo a rebuilding phase, focusing on integrating emerging talents and developing a cohesive unit capable of competing at the highest level.
Australia’s Performance in Test and ODI Series, Including the 2010-11 Ashes Series
The 2010-11 Ashes series was a pivotal moment in Australian cricket. Played in Australia, the series was highly anticipated, but the home team struggled against a resurgent England side. England won the series 3-1, their first series win on Australian soil in 24 years.
It wasn’t just the scoreline; it was the size of the individual losses. England’s three wins were all by an innings. Four times in seven innings, England passed 500, while Australia only once passed 310 in ten innings.
The series highlighted several issues within the Australian camp, including inconsistent performances and the need for strategic and personnel changes.
Despite the disappointment in the Ashes, Australia had notable successes in other Test and ODI series in the early years of the decade. Under Michael Clarke’s captaincy, the team began to show signs of resurgence. Clarke’s own batting performances were exemplary, often leading from the front with crucial innings.
His triple century against India in 2012 at the Sydney Cricket Ground was a standout performance, underscoring his class and leadership in a series Australia clean-swept 4-0.
But there was more difficulty to come. Australia was clean-swept in India in 2012/13 4-0, and lost the Ashes in England 3-0. In 9 tests, Australia lost 7 and drew 2.
But in the return Ashes series in Australia in 2013/14, Australia would turn it all around. On the back of Mitchel Johnson’s terrifying fast bowling, Australia won 5-0, with none of the tests even being close; 381 runs, 18 runs, 50 runs, 8 wickets, and 281 runs. Of their ten completed innings, England did not reach 200 six times.
The Rise of New Talents Like David Warner and Steve Smith
One of the most significant aspects of the early 2010s was the emergence of new talents who would become the backbone of Australian cricket. David Warner and Steve Smith were two such players who rose to prominence during this period.
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David Warner, known for his explosive batting and aggressive approach, quickly became a key player in all formats of the game. His ability to dominate bowlers and score rapidly provided Australia with a crucial advantage at the top of the order. Warner’s transition from a T20 specialist to a successful Test opener showcased his versatility and determination.
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Steve Smith, 2019 Dun.can from Leicestershire, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Steve Smith’s rise was equally impressive. Initially starting his career as a leg-spinner who could bat, Smith transformed into one of the world’s leading batsmen. His unorthodox technique, coupled with an insatiable appetite for runs, made him a pivotal figure in Australia’s batting lineup. Smith’s ability to score consistently, often in challenging conditions, established him as a reliable and resilient player.
2011 World Cup In India
For the first time since 1992, Australia did not reach the World Cup Final. Instead, they were eliminated in the Quarter Finals by the eventual winner, India.
Despite this being only Australia’s second loss in that tournament, not reaching the final meant that the tournament was a disappointment, and one that Australia would hope to learn from and not repeat.
Mid-2010s: Tragedy, Resurgence and Triumph
Phil Hughes, 2009 Whatisthefrequencykenneth, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
No story about the history of Australian cricket during the mid-2010s can escape the tragedy that occurred at the Sydney Cricket Ground on November 25, 2014. In a Sheffield Shield match between South Australia and New South Wales, Philip Hughes was on 63 when he misplayed a bouncer and was hit. Despite wearing a helmet, the ball struck below his left ear.
Hughes collapsed on the pitch and was taken to hospital and was placed into an induced coma.
Two days later, he died. He was 25 years old.
Philip Hughes 26 tests, scoring 1,535 runs at an average of 2.66, with 3 centuries. He had also played 25 ODIs, scoring 826 runs at an average of 35.91 with 2 centuries.
At the time of his death, Hughes wasn’t in the Australian team, but there had been concerns about Michael Clarke’s injured back, and Hughes was one of those in contention to take his spot if needed.
The first test, against India, initially to be played in Brisbane, was delayed. Instead, the first test was played in Adelaide, an emotional test where there were many impromptu shows of support for the fallen Hughes. A viral tribute campaign called ‘Put out your bats’ swept the country and the cricket world, as people left out their crickets bats and hats in a moving tribute to Philip Hughes.
Played under this intense emotion, the Australia v India test series was one unlike any other. Both combative nations, the two played the series in a more mellow, sombre tone. Australia won 2-0, with Steven Smith scoring 4 centuries, a feat matched by India’s Virat Kohli.
Australia’s Victory in the 2015 Cricket World Cup and Key Matches
Australia’s World Cup campaign was characterized by a blend of aggressive batting, disciplined bowling, and sharp fielding. Australia lost only the one match, against New Zealand in New Zealand, a bizarre match played at the speed of light on the postage size stamp field of Eden Park.
Batting first, Australia were expected to score over 400, but scored only 151. New Zealand, in reply, put were 1/78 off just 7.3 overs, with Brendon McCullum ring a whirlwind 50. But Starc, with figures of 6/28 brought Australia back in to the game, and it was only a 6 by Kane Williamson, with more than half the overs still remaining, that allowed New Zealand to win by 1 wicket.
In the final, played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australia again faced New Zealand. The match was a showcase of Australia’s cricketing prowess, as they bowled out New Zealand for 183 and chased down the target with ease, winning by seven wickets.
Notable Test Series Wins
Australia’s form in the mid-2010’s was still mixed. At home they were nearly unbeatable (save for a 2-1 loss against South Africa in 2016/17), but away from home, their record was far less impressive. They lost series in England 3-2, Sri Lanka 3-0, India 2-1 and South Africa 3-1. This was a trend for most countries at the time and has continued even now – being really hard to beat at home, but struggling away.
Late 2010s: Controversies and Rebuilding
The late 2010s were a tumultuous period for Australian cricket, marred by the infamous ball-tampering scandal during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town in March 2018.
The scandal, often referred to as “Sandpapergate,” involved Australian players Cameron Bancroft, Steve Smith, and David Warner. Bancroft was caught on camera using sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball, an act orchestrated by Warner and tacitly approved by then-captain Smith.
The fallout from the scandal was immediate and severe. Steve Smith and David Warner were handed 12-month bans from international and domestic cricket by Cricket Australia, while Bancroft received a nine-month ban.
Additionally, Smith and Warner were stripped of their leadership roles, with Smith losing the captaincy and Warner being banned from ever holding a leadership position again. Coach Darren Lehmann also resigned in the wake of the scandal, despite being cleared of any wrongdoing.
The scandal not only damaged the reputations of the involved players but also cast a shadow over Australian cricket as a whole.
The Australian public, cricketing community, and media reacted with widespread condemnation, calling for a cultural overhaul within the team. The incident highlighted the need for ethical conduct and integrity in the sport, prompting Cricket Australia to implement stringent measures to restore the team’s image and rebuild trust.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 2010 and 2020
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 112 tests, winning 57, losing 38 and drawing 17. Of these, 30 were played against England (14/11/5), 22 were played against India (8/10/4), and 15 were played against South Africa (5/8/2). Australia also played tests against Pakistan (13: 8/4/1), New Zealand (11: 9/1/1), Sri Lanka (11: 6/3/2), West Indies (8: 6/0/2) and Bangladesh (2: 1/1/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
SPD Smith : 72 Tests, 7164 runs; average of 62.84, 26 centuries, high score of 239
DA Warner : 83 Tests, 7088 runs; average of 48.21, 23 centuries, high score of 335*
MJ Clarke : 59 Tests, 4717 runs; average of 48.62, 16 centuries, high score of 329*
UT Khawaja : 44 Tests, 2887 runs; average of 40.66, 8 centuries, high score of 174
SR Watson : 44 Tests, 2758 runs; average of 33.63, 3 centuries, high score of 176
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
NM Lyon : 95 Tests, 380 wickets; average of 32.11, 16 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/50
MA Starc : 56 Tests, 240 wickets; average of 27.08, 13 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/50
JR Hazlewood : 51 Tests, 195 wickets; average of 26.2, 7 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/67
MG Johnson : 43 Tests, 176 wickets; average of 28.68, 8 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 7/40
PM Siddle : 52 Tests, 167 wickets; average of 30.16, 6 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/54
Leadership Changes and the Impact on the Team’s Performance
In the aftermath of the scandal, significant leadership changes were made. Tim Paine was appointed as the new Test captain, while Justin Langer took over as the head coach. Paine and Langer were tasked with leading the team through a period of intense scrutiny and rebuilding. Their leadership focused on restoring the values of respect, humility, and fair play within the team.
The leadership changes had a notable impact on the team’s performance and morale. Under Paine’s captaincy and Langer’s coaching, Australia began to rebuild its reputation, emphasizing teamwork and a positive culture. The emphasis on ethical conduct and discipline helped the team regain some of its lost credibility, although the road to full recovery was long and challenging.
Australia’s Performance in the 2019 Cricket World Cup and the Road to Recovery
Despite the challenges, Australia showed signs of resurgence in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, held in England and Wales. The team, led by Aaron Finch in the ODI format, performed admirably, reaching the semi-finals before being defeated by eventual champions England.
Key players like David Warner and Steve Smith, returning from their bans, played crucial roles in the tournament. Warner finished as the second-highest run-scorer, while Smith’s consistency and experience bolstered the middle order.
The World Cup campaign was a step forward in Australia’s journey of recovery. The team’s performance demonstrated resilience and the ability to compete at the highest level despite recent setbacks. The blend of experienced players and emerging talents provided a solid foundation for the future.
Following the World Cup, Australia continued to work on rebuilding and regaining its status as a dominant cricketing nation. The leadership of Paine and Langer, along with the contributions of key players, helped steer the team towards a more stable and successful phase.
The Stats: Australian One Day Stats between 2010 and 2020
Overall, during this time period, Australia played 204 games, winning 125, losing 79 with 1 tied and 11 no results. Of these, 48 were played against England (23/24/0/1), 34 were played against India (16/16/0/2), and 29 were played against Sri Lanka (15/12/0/2). Australia also played matches against Pakistan (24: 21/3/0/0), South Africa (23: 9/13/0/1), West Indies (20: 15/3/1/1), New Zealand (19: 10/7/0/2), Bangladesh (5: 4/0/0/1), Ireland (4: 3/0/0/1), Afghanistan (3: 3/0/0/0), Zimbabwe (3: 2/1/0/0), Scotland (2: 2/0/0/0), Canada (1: 1/0/0/0) and Kenya (1: 1/0/0/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
DA Warner : 109 ODIs, 4884 runs; average of 47.88, a strike rate of 96.04, with 17 centuries and a high score of 179
AJ Finch : 119 ODIs, 4559 runs; average of 40.34, a strike rate of 89.51, with 15 centuries and a high score of 153*
SPD Smith : 118 ODIs, 3810 runs; average of 41.41, a strike rate of 86.31, with 8 centuries and a high score of 164
SR Watson : 94 ODIs, 3481 runs; average of 40.47, a strike rate of 96.05, with 5 centuries and a high score of 185*
GJ Bailey : 90 ODIs, 3044 runs; average of 40.58, a strike rate of 83.51, with 3 centuries and a high score of 156
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
MA Starc : 85 ODIs, 172 wickets; average of 20.99, an economy rate of 5.02, 7 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/28
MG Johnson : 81 ODIs, 128 wickets; average of 24.45, an economy rate of 4.71, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/31
PJ Cummins : 58 ODIs, 96 wickets; average of 27.11, an economy rate of 5.14, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/70
JP Faulkner : 69 ODIs, 96 wickets; average of 30.85, an economy rate of 5.53, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 4/32
CJ McKay : 57 ODIs, 94 wickets; average of 24.05, an economy rate of 4.76, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/28
Early 2020s: COVID and Adapting to New Challenges
The early 2020s presented new challenges for Australian cricket, with the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacting cricket schedules and tournaments worldwide. The pandemic forced the postponement and cancellation of numerous series and tournaments, leading to a period of uncertainty and disruption.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 brought the cricketing world to a standstill. International tours, domestic competitions, and major tournaments were either postponed or canceled as countries implemented lockdowns and travel restrictions to curb the spread of the virus.
For Australia, this meant a reshuffling of their cricket calendar and adapting to new biosecure environments.
One of the notable impacts was the postponement of the ICC T20 World Cup, which was initially scheduled to be held in Australia in 2020. The tournament was later rescheduled for 2021, and Australia had to adjust their preparations accordingly. Additionally, the pandemic affected domestic competitions like the Sheffield Shield and the Big Bash League (BBL), which had to be played under strict biosecure protocols.
Australia’s Performance in Test and Limited-Overs Series During the Early 2020s
Despite the disruptions, Australia continued to compete in international cricket, with notable performances in both Test and limited-overs formats. The Australian team adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic, including playing in biosecure bubbles and adhering to stringent health protocols.
In Test cricket, Australia faced India in a highly anticipated series during the 2020-21 season. The series, known as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, saw India pull off a historic 2-1 series win on Australian soil, including a memorable victory in the final Test at the Gabba. The series highlighted areas for improvement in the Australian team, particularly in their batting lineup and handling pressure situations.
The Stats: Australian Stats between 2020 and now (July 2024)
Overall, during this time period (until July 2024), Australia played 37 tests, winning 22, losing 8 and drawing 7. Of these, 10 were played against England (6/2/2), 9 were played against India (3/4/2), and 6 were played against Pakistan (4/0/2). Australia also played tests against West Indies (4: 3/1/0), New Zealand (3: 3/0/0), South Africa (3: 2/0/1) and Sri Lanka (2: 1/1/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
M Labuschagne : 37 , 2929 runs; average of 47.24, 8 centuries, high score of 215
UT Khawaja : 29 , 2564 runs; average of 53.41, 7 centuries, high score of 195*
SPD Smith : 37 , 2521 runs; average of 45.01, 6 centuries, high score of 200*
TM Head : 33 , 2092 runs; average of 41.01, 5 centuries, high score of 175
DA Warner : 29 , 1698 runs; average of 33.96, 3 centuries, high score of 200
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
NM Lyon : 34 , 150 wickets; average of 25.66, 8 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/64
PJ Cummins : 33 , 130 wickets; average of 23.19, 7 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/91
MA Starc : 33 , 118 wickets; average of 29.07, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/78
JR Hazlewood : 19 , 78 wickets; average of 21.39, 5 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 8/24
SM Boland : 10 , 35 wickets; average of 20.34, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 6/7
Emerging Players and the Future of Australian Cricket
The early 2020s also saw the emergence of several young players who are expected to play key roles in the future of Australian cricket. Players like Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, and Josh Philippe have shown promise with their performances in domestic and international cricket.
_(Marnus_Labuschagne_cropped).jpg)
Marnus Labuschagne, 2009 Ben Sutherland from Crystal Palace, London, UK, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Marnus Labuschagne, in particular, has established himself as a mainstay in the Test team, with his consistent run-scoring and solid technique. Labuschagne’s rise to prominence has been a significant positive for Australia, providing stability to the middle order.
Cameron Green, an all-rounder, has impressed with his batting and bowling abilities, offering a valuable option for balance in the team. His performances in the Test series against India and subsequent series have highlighted his potential to become a key player for Australia in all formats.
Josh Philippe, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, has shown his skills in the BBL and limited-overs internationals. His aggressive batting style and ability to adapt to different situations make him a promising prospect for Australia’s future in white-ball cricket.
The Stats: Australian One Day Stats between 2020 and now (July 2024)
Overall, during this time period (until July 2024), Australia played 58 games, winning 36, losing 22 with 0 tied and 0 no results. Of these, 14 were played against India (7/7/0/0), 10 were played against South Africa (3/7/0/0), and 7 were played against England (6/1/0/0). Australia also played matches against Sri Lanka (6: 3/3/0/0), West Indies (6: 5/1/0/0), New Zealand (5: 5/0/0/0), Pakistan (4: 2/2/0/0), Zimbabwe (3: 2/1/0/0), Afghanistan (1: 1/0/0/0), Bangladesh (1: 1/0/0/0) and Netherlands (1: 1/0/0/0).
Australia’s top 5 batsmen for this time period were:
DA Warner : 45 ODIs, 1942 runs; average of 44.13, a strike rate of 101.94, with 5 centuries and a high score of 163
M Labuschagne : 52 ODIs, 1656 runs; average of 37.63, a strike rate of 83.04, with 2 centuries and a high score of 124
SPD Smith : 40 ODIs, 1636 runs; average of 51.12, a strike rate of 90.08, with 4 centuries and a high score of 131
MR Marsh : 36 ODIs, 1244 runs; average of 36.58, a strike rate of 100, with 2 centuries and a high score of 177*
TM Head : 23 ODIs, 1124 runs; average of 56.2, a strike rate of 121.77, with 4 centuries and a high score of 152
Australia’s top 5 bowlers for this time period were:
A Zampa : 51 ODIs, 104 wickets; average of 22.87, an economy rate of 5.24, 1 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/35
MA Starc : 36 ODIs, 64 wickets; average of 28.26, an economy rate of 5.63, 2 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 5/48
JR Hazlewood : 42 ODIs, 63 wickets; average of 27.69, an economy rate of 4.71, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 3/11
PJ Cummins : 30 ODIs, 45 wickets; average of 31.97, an economy rate of 5.57, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 4/35
SA Abbott: 20 ODIs, 27 wickets; average of 32.18, an economy rate of 5.42, 0 x 5 wicket/innings, best bowling of 3/23
Key Series Wins and Individual Performances
The recent years have seen Australia achieve notable success in international cricket, with key series wins and standout individual performances. One of the most significant achievements was Australia’s victory in the ICC T20 World Cup in 2021.
Held in the UAE, the tournament saw Australia lift their maiden T20 World Cup trophy, a landmark moment in their cricketing history. Key players such as David Warner, who was named Player of the Tournament, and Adam Zampa, who was instrumental with his leg-spin, played pivotal roles in securing the title.
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Australia also achieved a historic Test series victory against Pakistan in Pakistan in early 2022, their first tour to the country in 24 years. This victory highlighted the team’s resilience and adaptability in challenging conditions. The performances of Usman Khawaja, who was the leading run-scorer, and Pat Cummins, who led the bowling attack, were particularly noteworthy.
Conclusion
All in all, Australia’s cricket history has been one of many ups, some major downs, but an overall love of the game that has persevered. There is a joke in Australia that the Australian Cricket captain position is the second more important job title in the country, behind the Prime Minister (and many would say it’s the most important), and sometimes it actually seems to be true. Petrol prices might go up, the cost of living might be soaring, there might be a global pandemic … but if Australians can turn on the TV and watch their cricketing heroes defeat the English, the Kiwis, or whoever, we can still smile through the hardships.
Cricket brings people together. From the days at colonial beginning, even to now in 2024, cricket can and should be a unifying force.
I hope you have enjoyed these blog posts. If there’s anything you want to talk about or question, please send a comment through, and let’s chat.