Cricket: India finished classy summer with final act of sportsmanship against Australia

On and off the field, India showed Australia how to play cricket in their own backyard.

India's summer of absolute class earned comparison's with the famed West Indies Tour of Australia in 1961 that ended with a parade through the streets of Melbourne cheered on by thousands.

In different times, this Indian team would have received a similar heroes farewell.

Ajinkya Rahane's patchwork team of misfits and substitutes earned the respect of the cricketing world in the 2-1 series win, sealed with a dramatic three wicket win at the Gabba on Tuesday.

It's easy to see why.

The team's class was on display again at the end of the series when Rahane called Nathan Lyon to the trophy presentation area when he could have launched straight into his victory speech.

After a spiteful series where Australian players, including captain Tim Paine, were accused of crossing the line with their heated sledges — Rahane could have easily put the boot into Australia, as is the right of any victor to do after vanquishing their foe. After all, they did the impossible after losing captain Virat Kohli and half the team's starters.

Instead, Rahane, a former teenage black belt in karate, presented Lyon with a team India shirt to commemorate the spinner's 100th test.

Ajinkya Rahane's nice gesture for Nathan Lyon in his milestone match. Photo / Supplied/news.com.au

The moment was celebrated by Indian cricket legends, including former batsman VVS Laxman.

"Excellent gesture from @ajinkyarahane88and the Indian team to Felicitate Nathan Lyon on his 100th Test Match," Laxman wrote on Twitter.

"One more example of Sportsman Spirit from Rahane. How dignified he is even after achieving such a incredible win."

Irfan Pathan wrote: "Being humble in your win is a sign of greatness. What a beautiful gesture by team India, giving a signed jersey to Nathan Lyon".

India was the perfect team-first template for how teams should go about their cricket. Cheteshwar Pujara was punished by a short ball barrage that showed him getting struck on the body more than 10 times, but still put his wicket above his own body.

Indian rookie Mohammed Siraj stayed in Australia and captured his first Test five-for after making the heartbreaking decision to remain on the tour following the death of his father back in India.

The cricketing world can learn a lot from this side.