In the history of Test cricket, it has happened that after losing the initial match, the team has improved its performance and won the series. Such examples have been cited below.
The Ashes
In 1882-83, England toured Australia and won the series 2-1. It lost the first match and won the last 2 matches. A similar performance was seen when Australia toured England in 1888. England won the series 2-1 similar to the 1882-83 format. In 1897-98, England toured Australia and played 5 Test matches. Australia defeated England by a margin of 4-1 after being defeated in the 1st match and winning the last 4 matches. England toured Australia again in 1901-02 and was defeated by England by 4-1. The format was similar to the earlier example i.e. loss, win, win, win, win.
The Frank Worrell Trophy
In 1968-69, West Indies toured Australia to play a 5 match Test series. Australia defeated West Indies by 3-1. The first Test was won by West Indies. The next 2 Tests were won by Australia. The fourth Test was a draw. The last Test was won by Australia. During 1992-93, West Indies again toured Australia and in the 5 match series defeated Australia by 2-1. This series took place in the following format – Draw, Lost by West Indies, Draw, Won by West Indies, Won by West Indies.
Recent examples
| Year | Winner | Loser | Score | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006-07 | South Africa | India | 2-1 | Lost, Won, Won |
| 2007-08 | South Africa | West Indies | 2-1 | Lost, Won, Won |
| 2007-08 | England | New Zealand | 2-1 | Lost, Won, Won |