Cricketing fans worldwide eagerly await the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series, as India and Australia gear up for a high-stakes encounter. The series kicks off next week in Perth, with the two cricketing giants battling not only for bragging rights but also for a coveted spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final, slated for 2025 in England.
This year’s series is particularly special as it marks the first five-match Test series between the two teams since the iconic 1991-92 series. Running from November 22, 2024, to January 7, 2025, this extended format is expected to test the resilience, skill, and depth of both squads like never before.
India’s quest for a historic hat-trick
India heads into the series as the defending champions of the BGT, having secured back-to-back series victories on Australian soil in 2018-19 and 2020-21. These triumphs not only cemented India’s dominance in this fierce rivalry but also showcased their ability to conquer challenges away from home.
A victory in this series would see India achieving a hat-trick of Test series wins in Australia, a monumental achievement no other Asian team has accomplished. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Indian team boasts a balanced squad with a mix of experienced campaigners like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah and emerging stars ready to shine on the grand stage. India’s confidence stems from their consistency in recent years and their ability to thrive under pressure in foreign conditions.
Australia’s battle for redemption
For Australia, this series is about reclaiming lost glory. The home side, captained by the ever-reliable Pat Cummins, has been on the losing side in the last four consecutive Test series against India – two at home and two away. Their last Border-Gavaskar Trophy victory came in the 2014-15 season, and since then, India has held an iron grip on the rivalry.
Australia’s formidable pace attack, featuring Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, coupled with the class of Steve Smith and the aggressive flair of Marnus Labuschagne, will be critical in their quest for redemption. The hosts will be aiming to make their home advantage count, particularly on lively pitches that are likely to challenge Indian batters unfamiliar with the conditions.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: AB de Villiers predicts the scoreline and winner of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25
BGT 2024-25 predictions and Matthew Hayden’s bold claim
As the series approaches, predictions from former cricketers and analysts have created a buzz. While some see India as favourites due to their recent dominance, others believe Australia’s depth and home advantage could tilt the scales in their favour.
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden, known for his aggressive mindset during his playing days, has predicted a 3-1 series win for Australia. Speaking on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, Hayden outlined the factors he believes will be decisive and highlighted the influence of stalwarts from both the sides who can make the difference
“I think Australia is going to win 3-1. The form of players like Steve Smith and Virat Kohli, the bowling and leadership of Pat Cummins, and Jasprit Bumrah’s impact will define the series,” Hayden said.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Ravi Shastri names his India XI for the Perth Test; KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel included
