India snare a draw in final Test, Steve Smith named man of series

India's tail order batsman have battled for a valiant draw in the fourth and final Test of the series at the SCG.

Australia looked set for outright victory after pushing India to 7/217.

But, Bhuvneshwar Kumar (20) and Ajinkya Rahane (38) dug in to outlast the Australian bowling attack, spearheaded by pacement Mitchell Starc and spinner Nathan Lyon.

Following the match, Australian skipper Steve Smith congratulated the Indians on their efforts.

"Unfortunately we didn't quite get there, but I'm really proud of all the boys' efforts, for the match and the series as well," he said.

Smith was named as man of the match and the series after a record-breaking run of centuries.

He was installed as captain after Michael Clarke withdrew with injury.

Smith also said it had been hard for the team to overcome the tragic death of former teammate Phillip Hughes, who died in a Sheffield Shield match before the series opened.

He said the team had focused on winning the series for Hughes, who had been batting for a recall to the Australian team at the time of his death.

Smith, who posted a vital 71 in Australia's second innings yesterday, declared before start of play today and left the home side a full day to claim the 10 wickets necessary for victory.

Lyon, who has staked his claim as one of Australia's top bowlers this tournament, claimed the first scalp when he dismissed Lokesh Rahul on 16.