The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), a highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and Australia, is set to commence in Australia. This series holds immense significance as it impacts the qualification for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final.
India, a consistent performer in the WTC, aims to reach the final for the third consecutive cycle. Australia, the defending champions, currently leads the WTC standings. The series outcome will significantly influence the qualification process.
Historically, Australia has dominated the BGT at home, winning 14 of 27 matches. However, India has emerged victorious in four of the last six matches, winning the last two series with a 2-1 margin.
As India prepares to play BGT in all five major Test venues in Australia for the first time, let’s delve into their past performances at each venue:
Adelaide:
* Matches: 7
* India Wins: 2
* Australia Wins: 4
* Draws: 1
India’s first BGT match in Adelaide in 1999 resulted in a defeat. However, they have since registered two victories, in 2003 and 2018, which significantly impacted the series outcomes.
Melbourne:
* Matches: 7
* India Wins: 2
* Australia Wins: 4
* Draws: 1
India initially struggled at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, losing four consecutive matches. However, they have turned it around by winning the last two matches, contributing to their series victories Down Under.
Sydney:
* Matches: 7
* India Wins: 0
* Australia Wins: 3
* Draws: 4
Sydney Cricket Ground remains the only venue where India has yet to win a BGT match. They have suffered their biggest defeat Down Under at SCG, losing by an innings and 141 runs in 2000.
Brisbane:
* Matches: 3
* India Wins: 1
* Australia Wins: 1
* Draws: 1
India’s results at The Gabba have been mixed. They drew the first encounter in 2003-04 but lost in 2014-15. However, their memorable three-wicket win in 2021, featuring Rishabh Pant’s unbeaten 89, secured the series victory.
Perth:
* Matches: 3
* India Wins: 1
* Australia Wins: 2
* Draws: 0
India won their first BGT match in Perth in 2008. However, they have since suffered two heavy defeats, including an innings and 37 runs loss in 2012.
