The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25, a five-match Test series between Australia and India, will kicks off at Perth on November 22. This marks the first time since the 1991/92 series that the two nations will compete in such an extended format. The series promises to be an exciting contest between two of the best cricketing nations in the world, with both teams looking to assert their dominance in the longest format of the game.

Australia’s desire for redemption after recent losses

Australia will enter the series with a strong desire to break their winless streak against India in recent years. The Australian team has lost the last four Test series to India, including two defeats on home soil, which has added pressure on the team to perform at its best. The Aussies are desperate for redemption, especially after a long gap since their last Test series win over India at home in the 2014/15 season. The team’s focus will be on turning the tide in front of their home crowd.

Australia’s playing XI is largely settled, with no major debates over the team composition. The hosts are entering the series with a well-defined strategy and a solid lineup across both batting and bowling departments. The only significant change to the Australian squad is the absence of Cameron Green, who is recovering from back surgery. His unavailability will force the team to rely on other all-round options, but the overall balance of the side remains strong for the upcoming series.

Perth to provide a testing ground for both teams

Perth, known for its pace-friendly conditions, will provide a challenging start for both teams. The wicket at Optus Stadium is expected to offer bounce and pace, which should benefit the fast bowlers on both sides. Australia’s bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, are likely to thrive in these conditions, while India will be looking to adapt quickly to the unfamiliar playing conditions. The match in Perth could be crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the series, making it an exciting opening clash.

This five-match Test series will be historic for more reasons than one. Not only does it mark the first such encounter since 1991/92, but it also brings the weight of recent history, with Australia seeking to end their losing streak against India. With both teams in strong form and playing in challenging conditions, the BGT is set to be one of the most thrilling series in recent memory.

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Predicted playing XI for Australia in the 1st Test at Perth

1. Nathan McSweeney

• Set for a significant role in the BGT, replacing Cameron Green as an opener.
• Excellent recent form with an average of 42.25 in First-Class cricket over the last two years, including six centuries.
• Captaincy experience with Australia A and seen as a future leader.
• Promising performances, including a  match winning 50+ score against India A in the first Test, make him a key figure in the series.

2. Usman Khawaja

• Entering the final phase of his career at 37 and aiming to leave a mark in the series.
• Dipped form in 2024 with a 30 average in five Tests, but has a strong overall record since 2022, averaging 53 with seven centuries.
• Determined to rediscover form, especially in the high-pressure series against India.

3. Marnus Labuschagne

• Incredible record at Optus Stadium, averaging 103 in three Tests with three centuries, including a double ton.
• Despite a dip in 2024 (average of 30), known for consistency and vital to Australia’s middle order.
• Will aim to regain form and lead Australia’s charge against India.

4. Steve Smith

• Returns to his preferred No. 4 position after an unsuccessful stint at the top.
• Remarkable consistency against India, averaging 65, and a superb record at Optus Stadium with an average of 88 and a high score of 200*.
• This could be Smith’s last home series against India, and he will aim to make it memorable with big contributions.

5. Travis Head

• One of the most consistent all-format batter in recent years, averaging 42 with a strike rate of 78 in the last 30 Tests.
• Known for his ability to change the game in a session, which will be crucial against India’s strong attack.
• Head’s aggressive style and form make him a key player in this series.

6. Mitchell Marsh

• Takes on the role of fourth pacer in addition to his batting duties with Green sidelined.
• Outstanding 2023 form with the bat (67 average), but dipped to 26 in 2024.
• Excellent record at Optus Stadium with scores of 90 and 63*, will need to deliver both with the bat and ball.

7. Alex Carey

• Australia’s first-choice wicketkeeper post-Tim Paine, facing challenges in the 2023 series, averaging just 24.
• Limited experience at Optus Stadium, with a score of 34 in his only innings there.
• Needs to step up with the bat and behind the stumps, especially in a high-pressure series.

8. Pat Cummins (C)

• Leading Australia in his first Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home.
• Impressive record against India with 50 wickets in 13 Tests at an average of 26.18.
• Also highly successful at Optus Stadium, with 12 wickets in four Tests at an average of 20.16.
• His leadership and bowling will be crucial to Australia’s success in the series.

9. Mitchell Starc

• Strong record at Optus Stadium, with 23 wickets in four Tests at an average of 19.
• Overall record against India less impressive (average of 38.54), but will aim to improve in the home series.
• Key to Australia’s bowling attack, looking to make an impact against India.

10. Nathan Lyon

• Australia’s premier spinner with a fantastic record at Optus Stadium, taking 27 wickets in four Tests at an average of 18.
• Successful career against India with 121 wickets and nine five-wicket hauls.
• His ability to create breakthroughs in the middle overs will be vital for Australia in the series.

11. Josh Hazlewood

• Often overshadowed by Cummins and Starc but has 51 wickets in 15 Tests against India, including four five-wicket hauls.
• Renowned for his accuracy and control, vital to Australia’s bowling attack.
• Played a key role in Australia’s win during India’s infamous 36-all-out in 2020, and will be crucial against India’s top order.

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