By Vikram 
The India vs Australia Test series 2024, known as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, is set to be an exciting cricketing event. This series marks the first five-match Test series between these two cricketing giants in over three decades, with the last such series occurring in 1992. The matches will be part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025, making them crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the final scheduled for June 2025 at Lord’s.
Series Overview
The series will commence on November 22, 2024, and conclude on January 7, 2025. It includes five Tests played across major Australian cities, showcasing some of the best cricketing talent in the world. The matches will be held at iconic venues, including Perth Stadium, Adelaide Oval, The Gabba in Brisbane, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Schedule
Here’s a detailed schedule of the matches:
| Match Date | Match | Time (IST) | Venue |
| November 22 – 26, 2024 | 1st Test | 7:50 AM | Perth Stadium, Perth |
| November 30 – December 1, 2024 | Warm-up Match | 9:10 AM | Manuka Oval, Canberra |
| December 6 – 10, 2024 | 2nd Test (Day/Night) | 9:30 AM | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide |
| December 14 – 18, 2024 | 3rd Test | 5:50 AM | The Gabba, Brisbane |
| December 26 – 30, 2024 | 4th Test | 5:00 AM | Melbourne Cricket Ground |
| January 3 – 7, 2025 | 5th Test | 5:00 AM | Sydney Cricket Ground |
Team Preparations and Key Players
India
India enters the series with high expectations. The team aims to secure their third consecutive Test series victory in Australia after winning the previous two series in 2018-19 and 2020-21. However, preparations have faced challenges:
- Captaincy Changes: Regular captain Rohit Sharma will miss the first Test due to personal reasons (the birth of his second child). In his place, the team will be led by Jasprit Bumrah.
- Injuries: Shubman Gill is also unavailable for the first match due to a finger injury sustained during practice.
Despite these setbacks, India boasts a robust squad with talented players like Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Rishabh Pant. The depth in bowling with Bumrah leading alongside Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin will be critical.
Australia
Australia is determined to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after losing it to India in recent years. The team is led by Pat Cummins and includes experienced players such as Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne. Australia has not won a home Test series against India since 2014-15, making this series particularly significant.
The Australian side is known for its formidable pace attack featuring Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. They will look to exploit home conditions and regain their dominance over India.
Historical Context
Since its establishment in 1996, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has had a lengthy and illustrious history. Named after former captains Allan Border of Australia and Sunil Gavaskar of India, this trophy symbolizes one of cricket’s most intense rivalries.
Historically, India has made significant strides in Australian conditions. The previous two series victories have been pivotal moments for Indian cricket, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level abroad.
Significance of the Series
This series is not just about national pride, it holds significant implications for the ICC World Test Championship standings. India needs to win four out of five Tests to secure direct qualification for the final at Lord’s. Conversely, Australia aims to halt India’s momentum and assert their dominance on home soil.
The matches are expected to draw large crowds and significant viewership both in India and Australia. Fans are eager to witness thrilling cricketing action as both teams bring their best players to the fore.
Broadcasting and Streaming
Through a variety of television networks and internet streaming services, fans can watch every moment of the action live. In India, matches will be available on Star Sports channels and can also be streamed live on platforms like Disney+ Hotstar.
Conclusion
The India vs Australia Test series 2024 promises to be a thrilling contest filled with high stakes and intense competition. With both teams having much to prove, cricket fans around the world are eagerly anticipating this historic showdown. As players take to the field across Australia’s iconic venues, they will not only compete for runs and wickets but also for a place in cricketing history.