Legendary Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist has pinpointed some key match-ups to watch for in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Interestingly, despite Virat Kohli’s stature in world cricket, Gilchrist did not include the Indian superstar in his list of exciting contests. Instead, he highlighted two intriguing duels that could play a crucial role in the series—Steve Smith vs Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant vs Nathan Lyon.
Gilchrist’s omission of Kohli may raise eyebrows, but his rationale lies in the other intense battles that could be game-changing. All four players he mentioned—Smith, Bumrah, Pant, and Lyon—are capable of turning the tide on their day with their immense skill and match-winning potential. However, it’s these specific match-ups that Adam Gilchrist believes will shape the series.
The first matchup that Adam Gilchrist focused on was Steve Smith vs Jasprit Bumrah. He praised Smith’s recent form, particularly his performances in the two ODIs against Pakistan. Gilchrist noted how Smith looked sharp and ready for a strong summer, especially now that he is back in his favoured No. 4 position.
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On the other hand, Bumrah, who is widely regarded as one of the best bowlers in the world, will undoubtedly be a key figure in India’s attack. Known for his skill in testing the best batters, Bumrah will be eager to assert his dominance over Smith, who has consistently troubled India in the past. With Bumrah’s experience from two previous Test series in Australia and India’s victories in both, this battle promises to be one of the most anticipated of the series.
“Bumrah features funnily enough in my line-up against Smith,” Adam Gilchrist said. “Steve Smith looked quite switched on in the ODIs and seems ready for a strong summer. He’ll be happy to be back at No. 4.”
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Adam Gilchrist also highlighted another fascinating contest: Rishabh Pant vs Nathan Lyon. Their previous encounters have been nothing short of thrilling, and Gilchrist is looking forward to another exciting chapter. He praised both players’ abilities—Lyon’s skill as a spinner and Pant’s unpredictable batting style, which can switch between defense and aggressive attacking shots with ease.
Gilchrist suggested that Lyon might experiment with his strategies to outsmart Pant, whether by tossing the ball up or keeping it flat, while Pant will be prepared to counter Lyon’s tactics with his aggressive strokeplay. This contest promises to deliver plenty of drama, with both players capable of making a significant impact.
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“Rishabh Pant versus Nathan Lyon is another fascinating matchup,” he noted. “Lyon, the GOAT spinner for Australia, will be looking to outsmart Pant, who can transition from defense to attack in an instant.”
These match-ups, according to Adam Gilchrist, are where the true excitement of the series lies, adding layers of intrigue to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
