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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) has become one of the most fiercely contested Test series in modern cricket, with India and Australia engaging in epic battles over the years. The rivalry has only intensified in the last decade, particularly as India has emerged victorious in the last three series, including two on Australian soil. The upcoming five-match Test series, scheduled to start in late November 2024, is expected to be another chapter in this storied rivalry.
Australia’s quest to reclaim dominance
Australia, led by Pat Cummins, is under pressure to reassert their dominance at home, especially after losing the last two BGT series to India in their own backyard. The 2024 series is critical for Australia, not just for the pride of winning the BGT but also as a preparation for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final in 2025. Despite winning the WTC title and the ODI World Cup recently, the loss of the BGT remains a sore point for Australia.
India’s confidence and overseas success
India, under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, will enter the series with confidence, knowing they have the formula to win overseas, particularly in Australia. Their recent success, including the historic series win under Virat Kohli in 2018-19 and Ajinkya Rahane in 2020-21, has set a high standard. The Indian team’s ability to adapt to foreign conditions and perform consistently has made them a formidable opponent in any away series, particularly against Australia.
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Adam Gilchrist predicts the winner of the BGT 2024-25
As anticipation builds for the upcoming BGT between India and Australia, legendary Australian wicketkeeper-batter Adam Gilchrist has weighed in on the potential outcome of the highly anticipated series. With India set to tour Australia for the five-match Test series starting in late November 2024, Gilchrist emphasized the challenge that lies ahead for both teams, particularly for the hosts.
In an interview with The Times of India, Gilchrist highlighted that the onus is on the Australian team to prove their dominance at home, especially after their recent struggles against India in this particular series. Australia have not won the BGT in over a decade, with India securing memorable victories during their last two tours of Australia. Even though Gilchrist went for host to win the contest, he acknowledged that India have developed a reputation for being formidable in overseas conditions, making the upcoming series a significant test for Cummins and his team.
“Onus is on Australia to prove they are the dominant force at home. India know how to go away and win overseas. Naturally, I’m going to say Australia, hope they get there. But it’s too close to call. It will be a close tussle,” Gilchrist said.
