Former Australian captain Steve Waugh believes that India’s chances of clinching another Border-Gavaskar Trophy will heavily depend on the performances of Jasprit Bumrah and Virat Kohli. Waugh’s comments come as India prepares to defend its winning streak in the Test series against Australia on their home soil, having won the last two encounters.
Kohli’s Stellar Record Against Australia
Virat Kohli has been a standout performer against Australia in Test cricket, amassing 2,042 runs in 25 matches at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries. Kohli’s numbers are even more impressive in Australian conditions, where he has scored 1,352 runs in 13 Tests at an average of 54.08, with six centuries.
His ability to perform in challenging away conditions has made him a key player for India, especially in high-pressure series like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, has an outstanding record against Australia. In seven Tests, all played in Australia, he has taken 32 wickets at an average of 21.25. Bumrah’s skill and ability to deliver in clutch moments make him a crucial asset for India’s bowling attack, which also includes Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, along with spin options like Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Kuldeep Yadav.
Waugh’s Take on India’s Chances in Border-Gavasker Trophy
Speaking to IANS, Waugh praised India’s well-rounded squad but emphasized the significance of Bumrah and Kohli’s performances. “It’ll be a good series with two very good teams, equally matched. India has a good chance to win in Australia because they have a very strong bowling attack. With Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami, they have an excellent pace attack, and they also have many good spinners, such as Jadeja, Ashwin, and Kuldeep. But the key will be Jasprit Bumrah’s performance with the ball and Virat Kohli’s performance with the bat,” Waugh said.
Waugh noted that Bumrah’s wicket-taking ability could be the difference-maker in the series. “Bumrah is an excellent bowler; the more he takes wickets, the higher the chances of India winning the series get. We have seen Virat’s performance in away conditions. The Indian batting depends on him, so he will be at the helm.”
A Promising Contest Ahead in Border-Gavasker Trophy
The series promises to be a fiercely contested battle between two top-tier teams with formidable line-ups. While India will rely on their stars to deliver, Australia will look to bounce back on home soil. Waugh’s comments set the tone for what could be another thrilling chapter in the storied rivalry.
India will kick off the series against Australia in Perth on November 22, where Kohli and Bumrah will aim to extend their impressive records against the hosts and guide India to another historic triumph.
