Shrey Saboo, Jadetimes Staff
Shrey Saboo is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Sports News
Border Gavaskar Trophy is all set to start on 22nd November. The much awaited first test is scheduled to take place as the hosts, Australia, faces India. The 5th and the Last Test Match of Border Gavaskar Trophyis scheduled for the 3rd of January, 2025. Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney are the five venues that have been finalized to host the Test Matches.
India's Dismal Recent Form
India are currently in a dismal form in Test Cricket. They have recently suffered a hammering against New Zealand at home. Team India were white washed in the 3 match Test Series held recently. None of India's senior stepped up to the occasion and the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will have to bring their A game agianst Australia in order to pose any challenge to the Australian bowling. Rohit Sharma is all set to miss the series opener due to personal reasons. Jasprit Bumrah has been consistent when bowling for India, especially in relation to the bowling department. Mohammed Siraj will have to bowl to his absolute potential if he is going to derive anything out of the Australian conditions. Other pacers picked up for the Tour are Akash Deep, Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna.
Australia's Home Advantage
Australia, on the other hand, will be eager to reclaim the trophy on their home turf. With the series scheduled to be played across iconic venues like the Gabba, Melbourne Cricket Ground, and Sydney Cricket Ground, the hosts will have the advantage of familiar conditions and passionate home support. The recent dip in form of Indian team has given them an added advantage. They have named a strong squad for the First Test including big match players like Travis Head, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Josh Inglis and Mitchell Starc. Nathan McSweeney has been given a chance to showcase his talent in the upcoming Test Matches.
Key Factors for India's Success
For India to clinch the BGT, several key factors will come into play:
Batting Depth: With a deep and experienced batting lineup, India's big issue would be the quality and consistency of the top order while the middle order will really have to consolidate the Indians' position in the game.
Bowling Attack: One thing that will determine India's win against Australia is its bowling attack, with more focus on its pace duo Bumrah and Siraj.
Mental Toughness: No format is tougher than test cricket, and it tests the mind as much as the body. India needs to remain focused and composed for the better part of the series.
India's Chances of Winning the BGT
While India does have a strong squad and a good track record in Australia, there still are significant challenges. Indian batsmen will face the kind of pace attack that will be difficult to crack for sure. But still, if Indians can play according to their strengths and reduce weaknesses, they stand a good chance of making some contribution to take out the series.
