The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 will kick off with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22. Both India and Australia are gearing up for the series opener, with their practice sessions at the WACA Stadium intensifying excitement among fans. These behind-the-scenes glimpses are only building anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne recently sparked a buzz when he stated that he would bowl bouncers to Virat Kohli during the series. While many dismissed it as playful banter, Labuschagne appeared to take the comment seriously during Australia’s practice session. Charging in with intent, he bowled a fast bouncer to Pat Cummins, who responded quickly by ducking.
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This shows the level of competitiveness Labuschagne is bringing to the series, hinting at an aggressive approach from Australia’s bowlers. Meanwhile, Isaac McDonald, the pitch curator at Optus Stadium, has issued a warning to both teams regarding the conditions they will face. McDonald expects the pitch to offer significant pace and bounce, crucial elements that will test the batsmen.
How do you impress upon your captain that you should get a go with your medium-pace in the Test? Bowl bouncers at him like @marnus3cricket has done to @patcummins30 at the WACA #AusvInd pic.twitter.com/EK0Vk07k5L
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) November 18, 2024
He revealed that the pitch will have 10mm of grass, which will provide excellent carry for the bowlers, especially in the first few days. “This is Australia, this is Perth… I’m setting ourselves up for really good pace, really good bounce, and really good carry. In a perfect world, I want to emulate last year,” Isaac McDonald stated, emphasizing that the grass on the pitch is key to delivering the speed and bounce expected at this venue.
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The excitement surrounding the match is also reflected in the attendance, with a massive crowd of 85,000 spectators expected on Day 1. This will surpass the previous record of 81,000 set in a Test between the same two teams, marking a historic occasion in Australian cricket. With the preparations intensifying and a packed stadium awaiting the action, the stage is set for an unforgettable Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
