The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 is set to kick off on November 22 in Perth, marking the beginning of a high-voltage Test series between cricketing powerhouses Australia and India. With the World Test Championship (WTC) standings adding to the stakes, this series is expected to deliver fierce battles across all five Tests. Fans from both nations are eagerly awaiting the clash, which promises an exhilarating mix of skill, strategy, and intense competition.
Australia, eager to reclaim their lost dominance, last tasted a Test series victory against India a decade ago during the 2014-15 BGT. Since then, India have ruled the rivalry, winning four consecutive series — two at home and two on Australian soil. The upcoming contest provides Australia with a chance to end their drought and re-establish supremacy in one of cricket’s most storied rivalries.
Brad Hogg predicts the winner
Ahead of the blockbuster series, former Australian spinner Brad Hogg shared his prediction, tipping the hosts to emerge victorious with a 3-2 scoreline. Hogg cited Australia’s potent pace attack and familiarity with home conditions as key factors that could give them an edge.
The former spinner expressed confidence in Australia’s seasoned pacers, including Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, whose knowledge of local pitches could be pivotal. He also noted that the series itinerary, featuring venues known for assisting fast bowlers, further tilts the scales in Australia’s favor.
“I think you have got to favour Australia 3-2 at least because we are playing Perth, in Brisbane, then Adelaide with the night-ball test. I just think with our pace attack now, with the experience they have, the knowledge of Australian conditions, they should get on top with a more experienced pace attack,” Hogg told RevSportz.
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Spin dilemma for India
While Australia appears settled with their bowling lineup, India face a selection conundrum regarding their spinners. The debate centers on whether to include both Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja in the playing XI, particularly for matches on seaming tracks like Perth.
Hogg, however, advocated for the inclusion of both spin maestros, emphasizing their ability to complement each other across the course of a Test match.
“I think both Ashwin and Jadeja should play. Jadeja is very good in the first innings, I think with the ball skidding on over here with the greener wickets, but as the wicket wears down, this is where Ashwin comes into it, so they have got two spinners that are unique in a sense that they are going to give the team benefit on the different days of the Test match,” Hogg added.