NEW DELHI: The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to kick off on Friday as India and Australia clash in the first Test of the five-match series in Perth.
With both teams aiming for a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final, the series promises high-voltage cricket featuring a mix of seasoned stalwarts and promising young talents.
India, in a transitional phase, boasts several emerging stars ready to make their mark, while Australia introduces a debutant in their quest to reclaim the trophy on home soil.
Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Here’s a look at five rising players expected to play pivotal roles in the series:
Yashasvi Jaiswal (India)
The 22-year-old opener has been a revelation in Test cricket since his debut last year. With 1,407 runs at an average of 56.28 in just 14 matches including three hundreds, Jaiswal has proven himself as a dependable run-scorer. His aggressive approach, reflected in his strike rate of 70.13, has added dynamism to India’s top order. Jaiswal is in red-hot form, having already scored 1,119 runs in 2024, making him a key player for the visitors.
Sarfaraz Khan (India)
A domestic cricket giant, Sarfaraz Khan has struggled to find consistency in his Test career after a stunning start earlier this year. Despite this, his maiden century (150) against New Zealand highlighted his potential. The 27-year-old right-hander, with 371 runs in six Tests, will be eager to solidify his spot in the middle order and deliver consistent performances.
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Nathan McSweeney (Australia)
Australia’s new opener, Nathan McSweeney, is set to debut as a replacement for David Warner. The 25-year-old has never opened in first-class cricket, before India A match recently, but has impressed with 2,252 runs at an average of 38.16. Known for his dogged batting, McSweeney will face a trial by fire against a potent Indian bowling attack.
Dhruv Jurel (India)
At 23, Jurel has already made an impact in Tests with 190 runs at an average of 63.33 in three matches. The young wicketkeeper-batter impressed against Australia A, scoring 80 and 68 under pressure. With injuries to key players, Jurel may feature as a specialist batter, offering him a chance to cement his place in the lineup.
Nitish Kumar Reddy (India)
India’s 21-year-old pace-bowling all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy, is likely to make his Test debut in Perth. With 56 wickets and 779 runs in 23 first-class matches, Reddy’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball could be a valuable asset in Australian conditions. The youngster is being groomed as a potential X-factor for India.
Both India and Australia Batters Have Struggled in the Last Few Series
India, aiming for a record fifth consecutive series win against Australia, will lean on their emerging players to overcome the hosts on challenging pitches. Australia, bolstered by their experienced core and the addition of McSweeney, will look to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in front of their home crowd.
The stage is set for a thrilling series as both teams combine experience with youthful exuberance in what promises to be a battle for the ages.
