After a 3-0 defeat at home to New Zealand, the Indian cricket team has flown to Australia for a five-match Test series, with the first match set to begin tomorrow, November 22, at 7:50 AM IST at the Perth Stadium.
One more sleep. pic.twitter.com/RE6U4BkYsc
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) November 21, 2024
Perth, which is renowned for its quick and springy surfaces, will host a fierce matchup between the formidable Australian attack and the seasoned Indian batters. While Pat Cummins’ Australia will depend on Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc to rule at home, Rohit Sharma‘s India will be spearheaded by veterans Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah. With the aim to start the Test series strong, both teams have numerous factors on the line.
Under Bumrah’s leadership, India have a well-rounded squad with both seasoned players and some talented young players. The Indian squad will try to capitalise on Perth’s good weather and potent bowling unit. India will need to rely heavily on Bumrah’s speed and recovery skills. While youngsters Devdutt Padikkal, Sarfaraz Khan, and Dhruv Jurel have much to prove, significant expectations will rest on Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli as they face the challenge of Australia’s fast bowlers.
The mighty Aussiesa, commanded by Cummins, will attempt to take advantage of the local setting. The Australian squad is well-known for its profound lineup and fierce speed attack. Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins head the fast bowling attack, while Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne play important roles in the batting lineup. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy taking place in Australia, the top-ranked side in the WTC standings will certainly be the favourites; however, they cannot afford to underestimate a visiting Indian team that has performed well on foreign soil.
Head-to-Head:
Both nations have played 107 Test matches against each other, with India winning 32 and Australia winning 45. 29 matches concluded in draws, while one ended in a tie.
Where to watch:
TV: Star Sports
OTT: Disney+ Hotstar