AUS Vs IND 1st Test Preview: Key Players And Predicted XI For Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024

The much-awaited first Test of the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India is set to begin on November 22, 2024, at Optus Stadium in Perth. This series opener is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the 2025 World Test Championship final.

India, the current holders of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, are eager to recover from their recent loss in New Zealand. Meanwhile, Australia aims to maintain their stronghold in home conditions. The match will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and streamed live on Disney+ Hotstar.

Perth's weather forecast indicates clear skies and sunny conditions throughout the five-day Test. Temperatures are expected to range from 30°C to 34°C. The breeze might aid bowlers, especially early in the game.

The Optus Stadium pitch traditionally supports fast bowlers with its pace and bounce, posing challenges for batsmen initially. The grass cover will make the early session vital for both sides. As the game progresses, spinners may find more assistance as the pitch slows down.

Australia (AUS)

Australia remains a formidable force in Test cricket, especially at home. Their record at Perth is impressive, turning Optus Stadium into a stronghold. Marnus Labuschagne leads their batting with an average of 103.80 in Perth. Steve Smith adds stability, while Travis Head's aggressive play can shift momentum quickly.

Their bowling attack features Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, who excel on pitches offering pace and bounce. Nathan Lyon's spin adds depth to their balanced attack capable of exploiting any condition.

India (IND)

India faces a tough start without seasoned openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Despite this, they have a promising mix of youth and experience. Yashasvi Jaiswal has been exceptional with over 1,000 Test runs in 2024.

Virat Kohli leads the middle order with his outstanding form. India's bowling strength lies with Jasprit Bumrah's swing and control, supported by Mohammed Siraj's aggression and Ravindra Jadeja's all-round capabilities.

Injury Update

Rohit Sharma will miss the first Test due to personal reasons, while Shubman Gill's participation is uncertain after an injury during practice. These absences have prompted India to adjust their batting strategy.

Australia has no significant injury concerns and will field a fully-fit squad for the opening Test, boosting their confidence going into the match.

AUS vs IND Probable Playing 11

Australia

Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Inglis

India

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah (c), Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana

Australia vs India Full Squads

Australia

Pat Cummins (c), Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Alex Carey (wk), Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Mitch Marsh, Josh Inglis, Scott Boland

India

Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja,Yashasvi Jaiswal,Rishabh Pant(wk),KL Rahul,Mohammed Siraj,Sarfaraz Khan ,Prasidh Krishna,Nitish Kumar Reddy ,Harshit Rana ,Washington Sundar ,Abhimanyu Easwaran ,Akash Deep