Cheteshwar Pujara Predicts Australia As Favourites For Upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series

Cheteshwar Pujara, a seasoned Test cricketer from India, has identified Australia as the "realistic favourites" for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. The series is set to begin in Perth on November 22, and Pujara believes Australia's home advantage and experienced team give them an edge over India.

Australia's dominance at home is a significant factor in their favour. Pujara noted that the absence of Indian captain Rohit Sharma due to personal reasons could further disrupt India's team balance. This potential setback might impact India's performance in the first Test.

During a press conference with Star Sports, Pujara expressed his views on Australia's advantage. He stated, "Realistically, looking at the balance, Australia have the edge on home conditions. Injuries and Rohit not being there have disrupted our balance." Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about India's chances.

Pujara also acknowledged India's potential to win the series but still predicts Australia as favourites. He said, "But can we win the series? Definitely, we can. There is no doubt about it. If I have to predict, Australia are the favourites to win the BGT series."

The upcoming series carries extra significance for Australia after losing their last two home series against India. India secured both tours with 2-1 victories. Under Virat Kohli's leadership, India achieved their first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018-19 series.

Cheteshwar Pujara was instrumental in that victory, emerging as the top run-scorer with 521 runs, including three centuries and a fifty. His remarkable innings of 193 at the SCG was a highlight of his performance.

The 2020-21 BGT series saw India triumph again despite injuries and Virat Kohli's absence after the first Test. Ajinkya Rahane led India to another 2-1 victory against Australia. However, it's been ten years since Australia last won a Test series against India.

The Aussies' last victory over India in a Test series was during the four-match BGT series (2014-15), which they won by 2-0. Australia's recent failures against India at home have been disappointing for them.

Meanwhile, Team India's confidence has taken a hit following their recent three-Test whitewash by New Zealand. This marked their first home whitewash in 24 years and has affected their morale ahead of facing Australia.