The much-anticipated 1st Test match between Australia and India marks the beginning of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. The match will take place at Perth Stadium, Perth, starting Friday, November 22, 2024, with both teams vying for early supremacy in the 5-match series.
Match Details
- Match: AUS vs IND, 1st Test, Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
- Date: Friday, November 22, 2024 – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
- Time: 7:50 AM IST / 10:20 AM Local Time
- Venue: Perth Stadium, Perth
- Broadcast: Live Streaming on JioCinema (India)
Team Previews
Australia Preview
Australia enters the series with a full-strength squad and a chance to regain dominance in red-ball cricket against their arch-rivals. Having recently claimed the 2023 WTC title, they aim to start strong at home, relying heavily on their experienced bowlers and the solidity of their middle order.
Key Players:
- Steve Smith: Australia’s run-machine and a pivotal player in the middle order who thrives in Test cricket.
- Pat Cummins: The skipper and spearhead of the Australian bowling attack, Cummins will lead the charge on a bowler-friendly Perth track.
- Marnus Labuschagne: A reliable batter who is critical to holding Australia’s innings together.
Strengths:
A lethal pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood, combined with the guile of Nathan Lyon, gives Australia a strong edge in bowling. Their experienced batting lineup, including Smith and Labuschagne, provides stability.
Concerns:
The top order, including Usman Khawaja and Travis Head, must perform consistently to avoid putting pressure on the middle order.
India Preview
India faces significant challenges, starting the series without key players like Rohit Sharma (captain) and Shubman Gill. The absence of these two will test the visitors’ bench strength and depth. The onus will lie on senior players like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah (captain for the match) to inspire the young squad.
Key Players:
- Virat Kohli: India’s batting stalwart who thrives under pressure and has a good record in Australia.
- Ravichandran Ashwin: With his ability to extract bounce and turn, Ashwin will play a crucial role in the spin department.
- Rishabh Pant: The dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman can change the game with his attacking strokeplay.
Strengths:
India boasts a world-class bowling attack led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, capable of exploiting the fast and bouncy conditions.
Concerns:
A shaky batting lineup and inexperience at the top order might struggle against Australia’s formidable pace attack.
Pitch Report: Perth Stadium
The Perth wicket is renowned for its pace and bounce, offering plenty of assistance to fast bowlers. Batsmen need to spend time in the middle to adjust to the conditions and capitalize later.
- Conditions for Bowlers: Seamers will dominate, especially in the first two days with the new ball.
- Conditions for Batsmen: Patience and technique are key. Batsmen can score freely once they get their eye in.
- Expected Average Score:
- 1st innings: 300–350
- 2nd innings: 280–320
Weather Report
- Temperature: 18°C–28°C
- Humidity: Moderate (50-60%)
- Rain Forecast: Minimal chances of rain; clear skies are expected throughout the match.
- Wind: Mild breeze, aiding swing bowling in the morning session.
Squads
Australia:
Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Josh Inglis, Scott Boland.
India:
Rishabh Pant (wk), Jasprit Bumrah (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, Dhruv Jurel, Nitish Reddy, Ravichandran Ashwin, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Sarfaraz Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar, Abhimanyu Easwaran.
Head-to-Head Stats (Test Matches)
- Total Matches Played: 107
- Australia Wins: 45
- India Wins: 32
- Draws: 29
- Tied: 1
Predictions
Score Prediction
- If Australia Bat First: 360+
- If India Bat First: 255+
Winning Chances
- Australia: 75%
- India: 25%
Australia is the clear favorite, given their full-strength squad and the absence of key Indian players. Their fast bowlers are expected to dominate in conditions conducive to pace and bounce.
Who Will Win?
Predicted Winner: Australia
Australia is well-positioned to take an early lead in the series with a strong team and home advantage.
Disclaimer: This prediction is for entertainment purposes only. Cricketwebs does not encourage betting or gambling. While our experts strive for accuracy, we do not guarantee a 100% correct prediction. Enjoy the game responsibly!