The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia promises to be a fierce battle. Since their 2014-15 series win, Australia have struggled to dominate India in Test cricket, losing the last three series, including two humiliating defeats on home soil. Australian spinner Nathan Lyon has acknowledged the challenge, describing it as ‘unfinished business’ and expressing the team's determination to reclaim the trophy.
It's been 10 years of unfinished business: Nathan Lyon
"It's been 10 years of unfinished business. It's been a long time. I know I'm extremely hungry to turn things around and make sure we get that trophy back, that's for sure," Lyon said as quoted by West.co.au.
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India's exceptional performances in Australia over the past few years have established them as a formidable force in Test cricket. The upcoming series presents an opportunity for India to create history by securing a third consecutive series win Down Under. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy holds significant importance for both teams, as it could potentially determine the finalists of the World Test Championship. While both India and Australia are strong contenders for the WTC final, a series defeat could impact their chances of securing a place in the championship match.
Pat Cummins takes 8-week-long to prepare for Border-Gavaskar series
Meanwhile, recognizing the significance of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australian captain Pat Cummins has opted for an eight-week break to recharge and prepare for the intense series against India.
"Everyone that comes back after a break is a little bit fresher, you never regret it," Cummins was quoted as saying by Fox Sports.
"I've basically been bowling non-stop since the World Test Championship final, nearly 18 months ago. This gives me a good seven or eight weeks completely off bowling so the body can recover, then you start building up again for the summer. It means you can hopefully bowl for a little bit longer, maintaining pace is a bit easier, makes you less susceptible to injuries," he added.
India have dominated the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since 2017, winning four consecutive series, including historic victories in Australia during the 2018-19 and 2020-21 seasons.
Notably, the five-match Test series between India and Australia will start on November 22 at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The five-match series will then move to Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, promising a thrilling battle between the two cricketing powerhouses.
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