The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series opener in Perth, starting November 22, will see both India and Australia led by their pace spearheads, Jasprit Bumrah and Pat Cummins. Bumrah, playing only his second game as India’s stand-in Test captain, will face Cummins’ experienced leadership in what promises to be an intriguing contest between the two teams.
Cummins’ perspective on Bumrah’s captaincy
Pat Cummins, Australia’s skipper, expressed his excitement about watching Bumrah lead India in the longest format. “It’s great to see. It should happen more often,” said Cummins, highlighting the rarity of fast bowlers captaining their teams in Tests.
While India will miss regular skipper Rohit Sharma, who is on paternity leave, Cummins acknowledged the depth in India’s talent pool, saying their IPL stints have prepared Australia for the challenge ahead.
Potential debut for Nitish Kumar Reddy
Cummins also spoke highly of India’s potential debutant, pace-bowling allrounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, whom he played alongside at Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024. “He’s a great young kid,” said Cummins, praising Reddy’s skills and attitude.
India’s preparation amid challenges
India, currently second in the World Test Championship standings, enter the series after a tough 0-3 loss to New Zealand at home. With R Ashwin set to make his Perth debut and key players like Bumrah leading the charge, India will aim to bounce back.
Australia’s settled squad
Australia, atop the WTC standings, boast a consistent squad, which Cummins believes is their strength. Despite having an older team, Cummins emphasized the value of experience in high-stakes series like this. “It’s about reaffirming what we do really well,” he said, underlining the importance of familiarity and preparation.
As the two sides clash in the first of five Tests, fans eagerly await a contest between two teams filled with talent, experience, and the unique leadership of two pace-bowling captains.