October 30, 2024: Ahead of the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between India and Australia, former Australian captain Tim Paine expressed concerns over Mohammed Shami’s absence due to an ankle injury sustained after the ODI World Cup 2023.
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Paine emphasized that Shami’s absence will be a “huge difference” for the Indian team, particularly highlighting the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah. He noted, “If he gets hurt, then it’s curtains for me,” reflecting the high stakes for the Indian bowling attack.
The series kicks off on November 22 in Perth, featuring five Test matches. The second Test will be a day-night format at Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. Following that, the action moves to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test (December 14-18), and then to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground for the Boxing Day Test (December 26-30). The series will conclude at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.
India has announced its squad for the series, led by Rohit Sharma, with Bumrah as vice-captain. The team includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, with high expectations for their performance in Australia.