The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) between India and Australia has emerged as a formidable rivalry in the cricketing world, rivaling the legendary Ashes series between Australia and England. While the Ashes boasts a rich history dating back to 1882, the BGT, established in 1996, has quickly gained prominence as one of the most fiercely contested and closely followed encounters in the sport.
Historical Perspective: BGT vs Ashes (Since 1996)
Since the inception of the BGT, India has emerged as a dominant force, winning 10 of the 16 series played. Australia has secured five victories, while one series ended in a draw. Notably, India has achieved two historic away series wins in Australia (2018-19, 2020-21) and is aiming for a third consecutive triumph on foreign soil.
In contrast, the Ashes has been dominated by Australia, who have won eight of the 15 series played since 1996. England has secured five victories, and two series have ended in draws. Australia’s traditional dominance in the Ashes remains evident.
Match Statistics: BGT vs Ashes
The Ashes has a significant advantage in terms of matches played due to its long history. However, the BGT has witnessed a remarkable 56 Tests since 1996, with India winning 24 matches and Australia claiming 20 victories. India’s recent dominance reflects their evolution as a formidable force in Test cricket.
Recent Trends: The Last Five Series
In the last decade, India has established a clear dominance in the BGT, winning four consecutive series (2016-17, 2018-19, 2020-21, 2022-23). Australia’s last series win came in 2014-15 on home soil.
The Ashes have been more evenly contested in recent years. Australia has won two of the last five series (2017-18, 2021-22), while two ended in draws (2019, 2023). Australia has retained the urn due to their dominance in home conditions.
Dominance in Away Series
Away victories are a testament to a team’s strength and resilience. India’s two away series wins in Australia (2018-19, 2020-21) are significant achievements. Australia, on the other hand, has won only one away series in India, in 2004-05.
In the Ashes, Australia has not won a series in England since 2001. England has also struggled in Australia, with their last win there coming in 2010-11. Australia’s hold over the Ashes urn has been strengthened by their dominance in home conditions.
BGT’s Rising Stature
While the Ashes remains iconic due to its deep-rooted history, the BGT has risen to prominence as one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in world cricket. India’s dominance in the BGT, especially with back-to-back series wins in Australia, has led some to argue that the BGT now rivals or even surpasses the Ashes in terms of competitiveness and importance.
For Australia, the upcoming BGT series presents a chance to reclaim the trophy at home, while for India, the series is a crucial step towards securing a spot in the World Test Championship final.
