Australia’s Test captain Pat Cummins has identified Rishabh Pant as India’s “X-factor” in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. Cummins acknowledged Pant’s exceptional performance in Australia during the previous series, highlighting his unpredictable nature and ability to entertain with his on-field antics.
Cummins expressed his determination to rectify Australia’s recent setbacks against India, having lost four consecutive Test series. He emphasized the team’s high expectations when playing at home and their desire to make amends for the disappointing results in the past.
The Australian captain also praised the young Indian talents Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, acknowledging their impressive performances in various formats. However, he admitted that the team had not yet devised specific plans to counter them.
Cummins lamented the absence of Cameron Green, a key all-rounder who will miss the series due to a lower back stress fracture. He described Green as a significant loss, not only for his batting but also for his exceptional fielding and bowling abilities.
Prior to the Test series, Australia will face Pakistan in a white-ball series. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series will commence on November 22 in Perth, marking the first five-match Test series between Australia and India since 1992.
