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The Indian cricket team has touched down in Australia, ready to take on the hosts in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, a series that has garnered immense attention from fans and media alike. With intense anticipation surrounding the clash, Indian and Australian cricket enthusiasts are eager to witness what could be a historic series, marked by high-stakes cricket and potential shifts in team dynamics. One of the most prominent talking points has been the role of India’s star batter, Virat Kohli, and whether this series will serve as his farewell to Test cricket against Australia.
Virat Kohli’s legacy and struggles with form
Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket has been monumental, from record-breaking innings to leading India’s charge on foreign soil. However, his recent form has sparked debate about his longevity in the international arena. In 2024, Kohli has struggled to find consistency, managing just 488 runs in 25 innings across 19 matches, averaging 20.33 with only two half-centuries. His performances in Test matches at home have been particularly underwhelming, with just 192 runs in 10 innings against Bangladesh and New Zealand. This dip has led to discussions about whether the BGT could mark Kohli’s final chapter in his storied career.
The rise of new king: India’s next batting star?
As Kohli’s career appears to be winding down, Yashasvi Jaiswal has emerged as a key player in India’s top order, drawing considerable attention from Australian cricket pundits, with Australian media tipping him as the next big name in Indian cricket. The Herald Sun has highlighted Jaiswal as India’s next big star, describing him as a player to watch in the series and the new king. Known for his aggressive, fearless style and impressive domestic performances, Jaiswal has the potential to fill the shoes of India’s senior batters. His ability to tackle high-pressure situations and his rapid rise in international cricket have led to predictions that he could soon be the face of Indian batting.
"The New King" arrived in Australia
Yashasvi Jaiswal in Australia newspaper headlines. pic.twitter.com/DbYp4TN0TO
— JAISH 𝕏 (@i_boulti) November 12, 2024
Also READ: BGT 2024-25: South Africa legend AB de Villiers predicts the scoreline, winner of Border Gavaskar Trophy
Stakes high for India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
With Kohli’s form under scrutiny and Jaiswal poised to make his mark, the series could symbolize a “changing of the guard” for Indian cricket. While Kohli remains a beloved figure and an invaluable asset, the possibility of him passing the torch to a younger generation is becoming more apparent. Jaiswal’s skills and aggressive playstyle have already drawn comparisons to legends, positioning him as a likely successor to Kohli’s role as the leader of India’s batting lineup.
For Team India, the stakes are higher than ever. Not only does the squad aim to retain the BGT, but they also face the challenge of winning at least four out of five matches to secure their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. The series promises to be an intense battle, with each game carrying significant weight for the team’s future. As the matches unfold, all eyes will be on Kohli’s potential final stand and Jaiswal’s quest to cement his place as the “New King” of Indian cricket.
