India will travel to Australia for a five-match Test series at the end of the year for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The series between the two sides have been very intense in the past and, especially in Australia, where Team India has won the last two Test series.
Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, who was very successful in the last two tours, talked about the mental strategy of playing on the Australian surfaces.
Pant wants to think about one series at a time as Team India are playing all round the year and are always thinking about cricket. He feels that when you go to Australia, he needs to take special preparations of tackling the bounce on the wickets. Pant also stressed on tackling the short ball due to the different nature of the wickets and the atmosphere in the Australian grounds.
Pant talked about how the Australian players and fans don’t want you to win on their grounds and hence it gives special impetus to him to perform there and stun them. Pant also said that the toughest thing to play in Australia is the opposition’s pressure and hunger to win as they don’t leave an inch for him and his team. Pant added that he does not give the first punch, but when Australians come at him, he does not shy back.
Schedule of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, featuring cricket giants India and Australia, is scheduled to unfold across Australia, marking a significant event in the cricketing calendar.
Here’s a detailed look at the schedule based on the information available up to October 15, 2024:
- First Test: The series kicks off in Perth, with the opening match set from November 22 to November 26, 2024. Perth Stadium, known for its pace and bounce, sets the stage for what could be a bowler’s delight.
- Second Test: Moving to Adelaide, the second Test is scheduled for December 6 to December 10, 2024. This match will be a day-night affair, continuing the tradition at Adelaide Oval, which could add an intriguing dynamic with the pink ball.
- Third Test: Brisbane’s The Gabba hosts the third Test from December 14 to December 18, 2024. The Gabba’s reputation for being a fortress for the home team might put additional pressure on the visiting Indian side. However, India breached it in the last tour.
- Fourth Test: The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is set for December 26 to December 30, 2024. This match isn’t just a cricket game but a festive event, drawing one of the largest crowds in cricket.
- Fifth Test: Concluding in Sydney, the final Test will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3 to January 7, 2025. Known for its scenic beauty and cricketing heritage, the SCG will potentially host what could be a series-decider.
