The much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is set to begin on November 22 in Perth, but this year’s series will see some significant changes that fans may find hard to adjust to. One of the biggest talking points is the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been a key figure for India in Test cricket, especially in the BGT. Known for his solid batting and ability to anchor the innings, Pujara won’t be playing this time. Instead, he has taken on a new role as a commentator for Star Sports Hindi.
Pujara’s contribution to India’s Test cricket success, particularly in Australia, has been immense. He has often been the backbone of the Indian batting lineup, wearing down opposition bowlers and playing long innings. His absence will certainly be felt, especially on the fast pitches in Australia, where his composure and technique were invaluable.
Devdutt Padikkal Replaces Cheteshwar Pujara After Shubman Gill Gets Injured Ahead of BGT 2024-25
In Pujara’s place, Shubman Gill was initially expected to step up. However, with Gill suffering an injury, there is a chance that Devdutt Padikkal could open the batting in the first Test in Perth.
Pujara’s record in Australia speaks for itself. Over his career, he has scored 993 runs in 11 Test matches at an average of 47.28, including three centuries and five half-centuries. His best performance came in the 2018-19 series, where he scored 521 runs in seven innings. His tally included three centuries and he was named Player of the Series. That remarkable effort was crucial in India’s historic 2-1 win in Australia, their first-ever series victory Down Under.
This year’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy is special because it is the first five-match series between India and Australia since 1991-92. After the opening match in Perth, the series moves to the Adelaide Oval for a pink-ball Test from December 6-10. The third Test will be played in Brisbane, followed by the fourth in Melbourne, with the final Test set for the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3-7.
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