Who will win IND vs AUS Test Series? Ricky Ponting Predicts Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 Winner
Published on: Nov 21, 2024 11:17 am IST|Updated on: Nov 21, 2024 11:25 am IST
Cricket fans, get ready! The stage is set for one of the most iconic rivalries in cricket as India vs Australia kicks off the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024.
Ricky Ponting Predicts Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 Winner
Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting has already fired up the excitement with a bold prediction: Australia to win 3-1 in the IND vs AUS Test series.
Speaking on The ICC Review, Ponting declared, “I’m going to stick with the 3-1 Australia.” While he acknowledged the strength and depth of India’s squad, Ponting is confident that Australia’s preparation, experience, and talent will overpower the visitors.
Ponting vs Shastri: Contrasting Predictions
Ponting’s prediction comes after Ravi Shastri, the former Indian coach, suggested a similar result but in favor of India if they manage a strong start. However, Ponting isn’t convinced. He recalled the unforgettable India vs Australia Test series 2020/21, where India bounced back from 36 all out in Adelaide to clinch a historic 2-1 series win.
“Sunny got the better of me there,” Ponting admitted, referencing Sunil Gavaskar’s accurate prediction for that series. “I hope Ravi doesn’t get the better of me this time. So I’m going to stick with the 3-1 Australia.”
Why Ponting Believes Australia will win BGT 2024 3-1?
Ponting highlighted the Australia squad’s balance and readiness, despite a recent loss to New Zealand. He pointed out that players like Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and their formidable bowling attack give the home side a significant edge.
On India’s side, Ponting noted they are missing key players like Rohit Sharma for the first Test, which could impact their rhythm. While Jasprit Bumrah leads the side for now, Sharma’s return in later Tests could disrupt the team’s flow.
“India will be pretty certain of what team they’re going to play (in Perth),” Ponting remarked, “They’ve known for a while that Rohit probably wasn’t going to be here.”
For Ponting, the mental aspect is just as crucial as skill in the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024. He stressed how staying fresh and focused can make all the difference in high-pressure games.
“I think it’s not so much the skills side of it. It’s making sure that you’re nice and fresh mentally and physically,” Ponting said, citing Travis Head as an example of a player who thrived despite limited preparation.
IND vs AUS Test Series 2024
- First Test: Starts November 22, Perth weather forecast promises clear skies for the opener at Optus Stadium.
- Australia time: Toss at 10:50 AM AEDT; play starts at 11:20 AM AEDT.
- BGT Schedule: Five intense matches where every game could be decisive for the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 qualification.
With India aiming for a three-peat Down Under after historic wins in 2018-19 and 2020-21, and Australia looking to reclaim glory, this series promises to be a blockbuster.
Stay tuned for the most exciting India vs Australia Test series in recent memory!