As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, set to kick off on November 22 in Perth, excitement is building for what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the sport’s biggest powerhouses – India and Australia. The highly anticipated series will feature five Test matches, including the traditional New Year’s Test at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.
With the stage set, cricket fans are bracing for an exhilarating ride, especially as India comes in as the defending champions, having clinched the last series 2-1.
Nathan Lyon shares his views on the dynamic young batter
Among the many intriguing storylines heading into the series, one that stands out is veteran Australian spinner Nathan Lyon‘s admiration for India’s rising star, Yashasvi Jaiswal. Lyon, widely regarded as one of the best spin bowlers of his generation, admitted that the young Indian opener is likely to pose a significant challenge for the Australian bowlers.
In a recent interview, Lyon spoke highly of Jaiswal’s batting prowess, particularly referencing his outstanding performance during the Test series against England earlier this year.
“I haven’t come across him [Yashasvi Jaiswal] yet, but that will be a massive challenge for all us bowlers,” Lyon told ESPNcricinfo.
He went on to praise Jaiswal’s skill and technique, noting that the 22-year-old left-hander has already made a mark on the international stage.
“The way he played against England, I watched that quite closely and thought that was quite amazing,” Lyon added, acknowledging the threat Jaiswal could pose in the upcoming series.
The off-spinner also revealed that he had been gathering insights on how to handle Jaiswal, drawing on discussions with England’s left-arm spinner Tom Hartley, who faced India earlier this year.
“I had some really good chats with Tom Hartley about different ways he went about it to different guys, which I found quite interesting,” said the Australian bowler.
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Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 promises intensity
Jaiswal, who made a dream debut for India in 2023, quickly established himself as a key player with a string of impressive performances. His aggressive yet composed approach at the crease has drawn the attention of cricket pundits and opposition teams alike, and Lyon’s comments only add to the growing anticipation around his role in the upcoming series.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has always been a fiercely contested affair, and with both teams boasting a mix of experienced veterans and exciting new talent, the 2024-25 edition is shaping up to be no different. As the rivalry between India and Australia continues to captivate global audiences, all eyes will be on players like Lyon and Jaiswal, whose individual battles could have a decisive impact on the outcome of the series.
With India aiming to retain the trophy and Australia seeking redemption on home soil, the series promises high drama, memorable moments, and intense competition. And with stars like Yashasvi emerging as key figures, Lyon and the Australian bowling attack will have their work cut out for them in the coming November.
Also READ: Aussie icon Ricky Ponting predicts the scoreline of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
