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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), named after cricketing legends Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar, stands as one of the most iconic series in Test cricket. Since its inception in 1996, the contest has produced numerous thrilling encounters between India and Australia. Both nations have battled fiercely for supremacy, with each series adding a new chapter to this historic rivalry. As of 2024, India have dominated the contest with 10 series wins, while Australia have claimed the trophy five times, and one series ended in a draw.
India’s dominance in recent years over Australia
India have firmly established itself as the dominant force in the BGT in recent years. Their 2-1 victory in the 2023-24 series on home soil marked a continuation of their impressive run. India have now won the prestigious series four times consecutively—2017, 2018-19, 2020-21, and 2022-23. These victories highlight India’s growing strength and consistency in Test cricket, particularly in their own conditions, where they have outperformed Australia in several high-pressure situations. India’s success in these series is also a testament to their deep bench strength, which has seen young players step up alongside veterans, ensuring sustained dominance in this iconic rivalry.
BGT 2024-25: Top 5 century scorers in historic India-Australia Test series
1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND)
Sachin Tendulkar‘s record in the BGT is unmatched, as he stands at the top with the most centuries in the series. Over 34 matches (65 innings) between 1996 and 2013, he scored an impressive 3,262 runs at an average of 56.24, with a highest score of 241*. Known for his mastery and grace, Tendulkar’s nine hundreds against Australia underscored his ability to adapt to challenging conditions and formidable opponents. Across 5,493 balls faced, he maintained a strike rate of 59.38, demonstrating his focus and consistency. Besides his hundreds, Tendulkar notched up 16 fifties, an indication of his reliability at the crease. His tally of 391 fours and 25 sixes showcased his skill in finding gaps and clearing the field, making him a constant thorn in Australia’s side.
2. Steve Smith (AUS)
Steve Smith has proven to be Australia’s premier batter in the BGT since his debut in the series in 2013. In just 18 matches (35 innings), Smith has amassed 1,887 runs with an exceptional average of 65.06, the highest in this elite group. His top score of 192 highlights his ability to build large, game-defining innings. Known for his unorthodox technique and relentless concentration, Smith faced 3,574 balls with a strike rate of 52.79, showcasing his skill in adjusting his game according to the match situation. His eight centuries and five fifties underline his hunger for runs and his consistency under pressure. Smith’s tally of 204 fours and 10 sixes displays his calculated aggression and control, making him a central figure in Australia’s recent battles against India.
Also READ: BGT 2024-25: South Africa legend AB de Villiers predicts the scoreline, winner of Border Gavaskar Trophy
3. Virat Kohli (IND)
Virat Kohli‘s performances in the BGT are a blend of aggression and resilience. Over 24 matches (42 innings) between 2011 and 2023, Kohli has scored 1,979 runs with a solid average of 48.26, including eight centuries. His highest score of 186 came during a high-pressure game, reflecting his tenacity and big-match temperament. Kohli has faced 3,787 balls at a strike rate of 52.25, often setting the tone for India’s innings with his energetic presence. Besides his hundreds, he also scored five fifties, showing his consistency in anchoring the innings. His 218 fours and 5 sixes reveal his penchant for boundary-hitting, further marking his competitive spirit against Australia.
4. Ricky Ponting (AUS)
Ricky Ponting‘s legacy in the BGT is one of elegance and impact. Playing 29 matches (51 innings) against India, Ponting amassed 2,555 runs at a robust average of 54.36, with a personal best score of 257. Known for his aggressive yet composed approach, Ponting recorded eight hundreds and 12 fifties, establishing himself as a daunting figure for the Indian bowlers. Over 4,428 balls faced, he maintained a strike rate of 57.70, underscoring his efficient scoring. Ponting’s tally of 278 fours and four sixes speaks to his command over placement and timing, making him a vital force in Australia’s lineup across multiple series.
5. Michael Clarke (AUS)
Michael Clarke‘s BGT performances are remembered for their flair and substance. In 22 matches (40 innings) from 2004 to 2014, Clarke accumulated 2,049 runs at an average of 53.92, marked by a career-high 329*, a record-breaking knock that remains etched in the series history. Clarke’s seven hundreds and six fifties showcase his ability to step up in crucial moments and dominate the bowling attack. Facing 3,622 balls, Clarke scored at a strike rate of 56.57, blending aggression with patience. His 227 fours and 14 sixes reflect his capacity to shift gears seamlessly, adapting his game to both pressure and opportunity.
