The Indian team touring Australia for the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy looks markedly different from the squad that clinched historic victories in the last two editions. Among the most notable absences are Ajinkya Rahane who captained India to a memorable series win in 2020/21 and Cheteshwar Pujara whose batting heroics were pivotal in India’s 2018/19 triumph.
Cheteshwar Pujara tormented the Australian bowlers during the 2018/19 series in which he amassed a staggering 524 runs including three centuries, earning the Player of the Series honor. His ability to grind out bowlers, combined with immense patience and resilience, became a defining aspect of India’s success Down Under.
Even during the 2020/21 series, though he scored fewer runs, Pujara’s grit stood out as he weathered countless body blows to hold fort and frustrate Australia’s attack. With 993 runs in 11 Tests in Australia at an average of 46.28, Pujara has been a thorn in the hosts’ side for over a decade. This series marks the first time since 2014 that Pujara will not be a part of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood acknowledged the relief of not having to bowl to Cheteshwar Pujara. While speaking to press, Josh Hazlewood talked about Pujara and said that he is someone who bats for good time and makes a bowler earn his wicket every time. Hazlewood said that Pujara has done pretty well on the previous tours of Australia and he is really happy that this time, he won’t be bowling to Pujara.
Hazlewood also praised India’s current crop of batters, acknowledging the depth and quality of the squad. He added that there is a lot of pressure to perform in the Indian team and all the players in the Indian squad are big players.
While the absence of seasoned campaigners like Pujara and Rahane brings challenges, India’s young talents have an opportunity to make their mark. With a revamped lineup and plenty of pressure on both the sides, the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in the India-Australia rivalry.
