With the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia just around the corner, Australian skipper Pat Cummins shared his thoughts on the upcoming five-match Test series set to begin on November 22 in Perth. According to Cummins, one of the most crucial elements for Australia to reclaim the Trophy is finding a way to counter India’s star pacer, Jasprit Bumrah.
Cummins, in an interaction with the media, emphasized Bumrah’s impact, acknowledging the fast bowler as a key obstacle for Australia. “I’m a big fan of Bumrah; he’s a brilliant bowler. If we can find a way to control him, it will significantly boost our chances of winning the series,” Cummins stated, underscoring the significance of neutralizing Bumrah’s pace and accuracy on the pitch.
Drawing Inspiration from Recent Triumphs
Cummins also highlighted Australia’s recent victories over India in major tournaments, such as the World Test Championship final and ODI World Cup, as motivation. He expressed optimism that the team could carry that momentum forward, as they face an Indian team eager to maintain their decade-long hold on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
“It’s been a while since we last faced India in a Test series,” he mentioned. “We’re coming off some strong performances in major tournaments against them, and that’s a confidence boost. We’ll certainly be looking to draw inspiration from our recent successes, just as the Indian team will from their own.”
A Different Series Without Cheteshwar Pujara
An integral part of India’s batting order, Cheteshwar Pujara, who played a vital role in India’s previous two Test series wins in Australia, won’t be part of the upcoming series. Cummins acknowledged Pujara’s absence, reflecting on the unique challenge the batsman posed.
“Playing against Pujara always felt like playing true Test cricket,” Cummins remarked. “His approach to batting was relentless. He could play long innings, and it was a real challenge to get him out. With Pujara not in the lineup this time, it’s going to be a different experience on the field.”
Pujara, renowned for his patience and ability to anchor one end, often wore down Australia’s bowlers over the last two series. Without him, Cummins believes India’s batting lineup will have a distinct feel, requiring Australia to adjust its strategy.
A Rivalry on Par with The Ashes
When asked whether the India-Australia rivalry has reached the same intensity as the Ashes, Cummins didn’t hesitate to agree. The Australian captain believes the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has become one of the most intense and significant series in world cricket, given the recent competitiveness and closely contested matches between the two teams.
“India has beaten us in the last few series, and we’ve been more successful against England in the last decade. This rivalry is definitely on par with the Ashes in terms of intensity and importance,” Cummins said. For Australian players, facing India has become a measure of their skills and endurance, particularly with India’s dominance in the last two series.
Australia’s Path Forward
As the countdown to the first Test begins, Australia’s approach to this series is likely to focus heavily on neutralizing India’s pace attack, especially Bumrah. The Australian captain’s comments reflect not only the respect his team has for India’s bowlers but also the high stakes attached to this series.
With a focus on adapting their strategy to overcome Bumrah and draw on recent tournament successes, Australia aims to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and bring it back to their homeland after a decade-long absence.
