The much anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 is set to kick off with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22, 2024. This historic series marks the first five-Test contest between India and Australia since the 1991-92 season, rekindling an iconic rivalry.

India’s recent dominance and Australia’s determination

India enters the series with a psychological edge, having clinched back-to-back series victories on Australian soil in 2018-19 and 2020-21. These triumphs established India as the first Asian team to secure consecutive Test series wins Down Under. However, Australia, led by Pat Cummins, are determined to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which they last won in the 2014-15 season.

With India dominating the last four series (two home and two away), the hosts will be eager to break the streak. The conditions in Perth, with its traditionally fast and bouncy pitch, present a perfect setting for the Australians to exploit their home advantage. Nevertheless, India’s resilience and ability to adapt to challenging conditions make them a formidable opposition.

Absence of key players and a chance to shine 

India’s preparations for the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Perth have hit a few hurdles, with multiple key players either unavailable or doubtful. Reports indicate that captain Rohit Sharma, one of India’s most reliable batters, is likely to miss the match after being recently blessed with a baby boy. Rohit’s absence leaves a significant gap at the top of the order and raises questions about leadership on the field. In his stead, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah is expected to lead the side and KL Rahul to open the innings.

Adding to India’s woes, Shubman Gill, who has been in superb form recently, is likely to miss the first Test after injuring his fingers while fielding at second slip during a simulation match at the WACA.  In his place, Devdutt Padikkal could get a chance at Number 3. India may also look to bolster their playing XI with fresh faces. Promising all-rounder Nitish Kumar is a strong contender to make his debut, offering balance with his ability to contribute both with the bat and ball.

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Predicted playing XI of India for the 1st Test in Perth

1. KL Rahul: Rahul, likely to open the innings, brings stability and experience at the top of the order. While not in a leadership role for this match, his responsibility as a senior batter will be critical in providing India with solid starts. Rahul’s technique against pace makes him a valuable asset on Australian wickets.
2. Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young and fearless opener, Jaiswal, has already shown his ability to thrive under pressure. His aggressive yet calculated approach could set the tone for India’s innings. With his natural flair, Jaiswal will aim to tackle the Australian new-ball attack confidently.
3. Devdutt Padikkal: With Gill ruled out, Padikkal is likely to make his Test debut. A stylish left-hander, Padikkal’s strong domestic record and composure at the crease make him a promising addition to the playing XI. His partnership with the middle order will be vital in building big totals.
4. Virat Kohli: India’s batting mainstay, Kohli, remains the backbone of the lineup. His rich experience in Australian conditions and hunger for big runs make him a key figure in the middle order. Kohli’s ability to dominate bowlers and anchor the innings could be decisive in this high-stakes clash.
5. Dhruv Jurel: A potential debutant, Jurel’s inclusion strengthens India’s lower-middle order. Known for his explosive batting and quick reflexes as a wicketkeeper, Jurel could provide valuable runs down the order. His youthful energy and sharp glove work add depth to the squad.
6. Rishabh Pant:  Pant will don the gloves and play a crucial role in India’s batting strategy. His fearless approach and ability to counter-attack make him a dangerous proposition for bowlers. In addition, his leadership insights and chirpy presence behind the stumps will keep the team energized.
7. Ravindra Jadeja:  Jadeja’s all-round brilliance adds unmatched balance to the team. His ability to bowl long, economical spells while also contributing vital runs with the bat makes him indispensable. On a pitch like Perth, his sharp fielding could save crucial runs and provide key breakthroughs.
8. Nitish Kumar:  Nitish Kumar is expected to make his Test debut as a batting all-rounder. With his ability to bowl useful medium pace and steady the innings in challenging conditions, Kumar brings versatility to the team. He will look to make a strong impression in his maiden outing.
9. Mohammed Siraj: Siraj, a seasoned campaigner, complements Bumrah in India’s pace attack. With his ability to generate movement and maintain relentless accuracy, Siraj has proven himself in Australian conditions before. His fiery spells and knack for taking crucial wickets bolster India’s bowling strength.
10. Jasprit Bumrah (c):  Bumrah, stepping in as captain for the first Test, will shoulder the responsibility of leading the side in Rohit Sharma’s absence. Known for his sharp tactical acumen and ability to deliver in crunch moments, Bumrah’s leadership, combined with his world-class bowling, will be pivotal in challenging Australian batters on the pace-friendly Perth pitch.
11. Prasidh Krishna:  Krishna’s extra bounce and ability to exploit seam-friendly conditions make him an exciting prospect for the Perth Test. His knack for striking early in the innings will be crucial in unsettling the Australian top order. Prasidh’s aggression complements India’s pace attack perfectly.

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