Cricket Australia (CA) faced widespread criticism for sidelining Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar during the presentation ceremony of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25. The incident occurred at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) after Australia secured a 3-1 series victory with a dominant six-wicket win in the final Test, reclaiming the coveted trophy after a decade.
While Australian great Allan Border handed the trophy to captain Pat Cummins, Gavaskar, present at the ground for commentary duties, was conspicuously absent from the podium. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, named after two cricketing icons—Allan Border of Australia and Sunil Gavaskar of India—symbolizes one of Test cricket’s fiercest rivalries. Traditionally, the presentation involves both legends whenever possible, underscoring the mutual respect between the two cricketing nations.
However, this time, Cricket Australia had pre-decided that if Australia won, Border alone would present the trophy, while Gavaskar would take the honours if India retained it. This arrangement sparked controversy, as Gavaskar, a key figure in the series’ legacy, was relegated to the sidelines.
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Responding to the backlash, a CA spokesperson admitted the oversight, stating, “We acknowledge it would have been preferable if both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar had been asked to go on stage.”
Sunil Gavaskar was not invited to the podium to present the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
“We acknowledge it would have been preferable if both AB and Sunil had been asked to go on stage,” CA said later. @vijaymirror reports 👇https://t.co/8lm1SQWUqq#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/JO4tU3B7qd
— Cricbuzz (@cricbuzz) January 5, 2025
Gavaskar himself expressed disappointment over the incident, emphasizing his willingness to share the moment with his longtime friend Border. Speaking to Code Sports, Gavaskar remarked, “I certainly would have loved to be there for the presentation. After all, it’s the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, celebrating Australia and India. It shouldn’t matter that Australia won. They played better cricket, and they deserved it. I would have been happy to present the trophy alongside Allan.”
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While not deeply saddened, Gavaskar admitted feeling perplexed by the decision. In an interview with ABC Sport, he added, “It’s the Border-Gavaskar Trophy—both of us should have been there. I’m not sad, just confused. If India didn’t win or draw, I wouldn’t be required. But this is about the spirit of the game and our shared legacy.”
The incident has reignited discussions about respect and inclusivity in cricket, reminding fans of the need to honor both nations’ contributions to such a celebrated rivalry.
