NEW DELHI: The much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off on Friday at the Optus Stadium in Perth, marking the start of a five-Test series between hosts Australia and India. The clash promises high drama as India, having dominated the rivalry in recent years, look to secure a third consecutive series win on Australian soil.
India enter the series with the momentum of four straight BGT series victories – two at home and two in Australia. The hosts, on the other hand, are eager to reclaim the trophy, with their last triumph in the contest dating back to the 2014-15 series.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
This historic matchup comes with added pressure for the Australians, as their star-studded lineup faces an Indian team aiming to reinforce their dominance.
The stakes have sparked widespread discussion among fans and cricketing experts.
Former Indian batter Wasim Jaffer believes the weight of expectations lies heavier on the Australian side. In a tweet on his official X handle, Jaffer remarked, “I think there’s more pressure on Aus than Ind. Aus haven’t beaten Ind in 10 years. They lost back-to-back at home. If they lose one more, heads are going to roll. They’ve [got] a few ageing superstars who won’t get another crack at Ind if they lose. India have nothing to lose.”
Responding to Jaffer, former England captain Michael Vaughan, known for his lively social media exchanges, reminded fans that India also faces significant pressure after their recent struggles at home.
Referring to India’s 0-3 loss to New Zealand in a bilateral series, Vaughan quipped, “Of course India have something to lose, Wasim. They have just been whitewashed at home. They can’t afford another heavy beating.”
The verbal sparring between Jaffer and Vaughan has added to the buzz surrounding the series opener, reflecting the global cricketing community’s keen interest in the contest.
As the action unfolds, all eyes will be on both teams’ strategies to seize the early advantage. India will aim to maintain their winning streak in the rivalry, while Australia seek to reestablish their dominance in one of cricket’s most celebrated duels.
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