The first Test of the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between Australia and India is set to kick off on Friday, November 22, 2024, at the Optus Stadium in Perth. This match not only marks the beginning of a five-Test series but also carries significant implications for both teams in their quest for World Test Championship points. Australia, under the leadership of Pat Cummins, enters the contest as favourites, leveraging their home advantage and a formidable bowling lineup that includes Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. The Australian side is known for its strong performances at this venue, having never lost a Test match at the Optus Perth Stadium.

On the other hand, India faces a challenging start to the series, coming off a disappointing 3-0 defeat to New Zealand in their last home series. With key players Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill absent due to personal reasons and injury respectively, Jasprit Bumrah will captain a reshuffled Indian squad that includes promising talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Devdutt Padikkal. The Indian batting lineup will be tested against Australia’s potent pace attack on a pitch that promises pace and bounce, characteristics that have historically favoured fast bowlers.

The Perth pitch is expected to play a crucial role in this Test, with curator Isaac McDonald indicating that while recent wet weather may prevent significant cracks from developing, the surface will still offer plenty for both batters and bowlers. The average first-innings score at this venue hovers around 456 runs, suggesting that teams batting first will have an advantage. As both sides look to establish dominance early in the series, fans can expect an intense battle filled with individual matchups that could very well determine the outcome of this pivotal Test.

5 key battles to watch out

1. Mitchell Starc vs Virat Kohli

The rivalry between Starc and Virat Kohli has been a defining feature of the Australia-India contests over the past decade. Starc has dismissed Kohli four times in Test matches, but Kohli has also scored 236 runs off 394 deliveries against him, averaging an impressive 59. This contest is not just about statistics; it embodies a fierce competitive spirit. Starc has expressed his enjoyment in these battles, highlighting their mutual respect and the thrill of competing against one another. As both players eye significant milestones—Kohli aiming for his 34th Test century and Starc chasing 400 Test wickets—the stakes are high. Their performances could very well dictate the momentum of the match.

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024: Jasprit Bumrah’s record in Test cricket on Australian soil

2. Pat Cummins vs Yashasvi Jaiswal

As Australia’s captain and premier fast bowler, Cummins will be crucial in setting the tone for the match. Jaiswal, stepping into a key role due to Rohit’s absence, faces a daunting challenge against Cummins’ pace and bounce on a pitch known for favouring fast bowlers. Historically, young batters have struggled against seasoned pacers in their debut series; thus, Jaiswal’s ability to negotiate Cummins early on will be pivotal. If he can withstand this initial onslaught, it may allow him to build confidence and anchor India’s innings.

3. Jasprit Bumrah vs Steve Smith

Bumrah’s unorthodox bowling action and ability to deliver yorkers make him one of the most dangerous bowlers in cricket today. His matchup against Steve Smith is particularly intriguing; Smith’s unique batting style has often been tested by Bumrah’s pace and precision. Historically, Bumrah has had success against Australia’s middle order, which adds pressure on Smith to perform under challenging conditions. A strong start from Bumrah could disrupt Australia’s batting lineup significantly.

4. Nathan Lyon vs Rishabh Pant

Nathan Lyon is expected to play a crucial role as Australia’s leading spinner on a pitch that may offer some turn. Rishabh Pant‘s aggressive batting style could lead to an exciting contest against Lyon’s spin bowling. Historically, Pant has shown resilience against spinners but has also been prone to rash shots when attacking. Lyon will aim to exploit any weaknesses in Pant’s technique, making this battle critical for both teams’ fortunes in the middle overs.

5. Ravichandran Ashwin vs Marnus Labuschagne

Ravichandran Ashwin‘s experience and skill as a spinner will be tested against Marnus Labuschagne, who has emerged as one of Australia’s most reliable batters in recent years. Ashwin’s ability to outsmart batters with his variations will be crucial in containing Labuschagne’s scoring opportunities. Labuschagne, a seasoned batter now, is known for his sheer grit and flamboyant gameplay that will be a challenge for Indian bowling line-up. Historically, Ashwin has been effective at breaking partnerships; hence, if he can dismiss Labuschagne early, it could tilt the balance in favour of India significantly.

These key battles are not just individual contests; they represent larger narratives within the series that could influence team dynamics and strategies as both sides aim for victory in this critical Test match.

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