The rivalry between India and Australia has consistently been the most talked-about in cricket history. Regardless of the format, whenever these two teams collide, it captivates experts and fans alike, keeping everyone on edge. While some argue that Test Cricket is declining in popularity, the IND vs AUS Test Series proves otherwise. The extension of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to five matches has left everyone delighted.
Australia is gearing up to host India for a five-match Test series in the next edition of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a landmark event in cricket history. This highly anticipated series, scheduled to commence in late November 2024, holds immense significance as it marks India’s return to a five-match series on Australian soil for the first time since the 1991-92 season. During that previous encounter, Australia secured a decisive 4-0 victory over India.
“The BCCI remains steadfast in its dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Test Cricket, a format we hold in the highest esteem.” BCCI Secretary Jay Shah stated.
“Our ongoing collaboration with Cricket Australia in extending the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to five Tests underscores our collective commitment to nurturing and elevating Test cricket’s significance” he added.
“This extension echoes our shared vision to amplify the essence of Test cricket and uphold its legacy. As India and Australia, come together, we anticipate an enthralling spectacle that will captivate fans worldwide with its intensity and excitement.”
India aim to keep up dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
India has asserted its dominance over Australia, securing victory in the past four editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Additionally, they have triumphed in the last two Test series held in Australia, establishing themselves as the sole Asian team to claim a red-ball series win on Australian turf.
“We are absolutely delighted the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been extended to five Tests given the intense rivalry between our two great cricketing nations and the excitement this creates.said Cricket Australia Chairperson Mike Baird.
“The eyes of the cricket world will be on Australia and I’m confident Pat Cummins’ World Champion team can overcome the skill and depth of the Indian team who played so brilliantly to win the last two series here and reclaim the trophy.
“We’re grateful for the collaboration with the BCCI and I echo Mr Shah’s sentiments about the pre-eminence of Test cricket. We look forward to hosting their team, officials and fans throughout what will be a tremendous series and a highlight of a packed summer of cricket.”
Furthermore, the upcoming series carries significant weight within the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, with both India and Australia currently holding the top two positions, respectively.
Perth to host first IND vs AUS Test:
Cricket Australia has yet to release its schedule for the upcoming season, but a final announcement is anticipated by the end of this month. The series is expected to kick off in late November this year. According to a report in The Sydney Morning Herald, Perth is a strong candidate to host the series opener.
Adelaide is slated to host the second Test, which will be a day-night match, adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the competition. Brisbane will be the venue for the third Test before the action shifts to Melbourne for the traditional Boxing Day Test. The series will wrap up in Sydney with the New Year’s Test, maintaining the longstanding traditions of the Australian cricket calendar.