Five most memorable Test series since 2000

There have been growing doubts regarding the long-term future of Test cricket, over the last few years, due to the surge in popularity of T20 cricket. With that being the case, what Test cricket is desperately looking for is some gripping contests in order to capture the imagination of younger audiences in particular. There have been a few memorable Test match series, to the game’s credit, since the start of the 21st century. A few more of such series in the coming years would ensure that the longest format of the game continues thriving despite the intense competition it is facing for relevance in modern times.Here, we have a look at the five most memorable Test series since 2000. Note: Test series constituting just two matches have not been considered 

#5 South Africa vs. Australia, 2009 (3-match series)

People had started suggesting that Australia were on the wane after they lost the home series 2-1 against South Africa in 2008/09, but they clearly had life left in them as they reversed that 2-1 scoreline against the Proteas in South Africa shortly after.

Their series victory against a strong South African side in their own backyard is even more remarkable when you consider the fact they went into the 1st Test, at Johannesburg, with their most inexperienced side in 20 years.

Phillip Hughes, Ben Hilfenhaus and Marcus North were all making their Test debuts, but they were still good enough to win the 1st Test by 162 runs, thanks largely to Mitchell Johnson’s match figures of 8/137 in addition to his 96* in the 1st innings.

Hughes took charge of the 2nd Test with hundreds in both innings to hand Australia not just a comprehensive 175-run win but also an unassailable 2-0 series lead. Although South Africa managed to regain some pride beating Australia by an innings and 20 runs in the 3rd Test, at Cape Town, it wasn’t enough as the ICC Test maze for being the No.1 Test side remained firmly with Australia.