The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 between India and AustraliaIt is one of the most awaited Test series of the year, starting on November 22. This series will be very important for India’s chances of a place in the competition World Test Championship (WTC) it is planned to be held in the final England next year.
Sarhad Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25
India need to win the series 4-0 to secure qualification irrespective of the results of the other matches. The series will begin in Perth, with the second Test scheduled for a day-night match at the Adelaide Oval from December 6 to 10. The action will then move to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test from December 14 to 18. the iconic Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30. The final Test will be held at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January. 3-7, 2025 promises an exciting outcome to this high-stakes competition.
India’s squad for BGT has changed, as have veterans Cheteshwar Pujara not included. This allows young players to step up. One of these fresh faces is open Yashasvi Jaiswal, who will be playing in Australia for the first time. The youngster has been in form but this series will test him in new, tough conditions. In light of this, the former Indian cricketer Wasim Jafar He posted a cryptic message on X that many assumed was directed at Jaiswal.
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Wasim Jaffer’s cryptic message ahead of the Perth Test
On Friday (November 21), Jaffer took to the X handle to share a playful yet thought-provoking post. He has uploaded a small clip from a popular Bollywood song What is the front of the blouse? from the movie Khal Nayak. The clip is highlighted “You, you, you, you, you, you, you” part of the song led many cricket fans to believe that Jaffer was sending a subtle message to Jaiswal. Speculation grew when fans linked the post to the former England captain and champion opener Alastair CookFamous for his success in Australian conditions.
My message @ybj_19 For BGT 😉 #İYKYK #AUSWIN pic.twitter.com/EeKvLjitao
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 21, 2024
Cook’s remarkable record in Australia included scoring 1,664 runs at an impressive average of 48.94 in 36 Test innings. He made a big impact in 2006 by scoring a century in Perth after struggling in Brisbane and Adelaide on his first tour of Australia. This century was pivotal in demonstrating Cook’s ability to adapt to the harsh Australian conditions known for his pace and bounce. It is likely that Jaffer’s cryptic writing was a reference to Cook’s performance, suggesting that Jaiswal was inspired by Cook’s adaptability, patience and character.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s challenge in Australia
The series will be Jaiswal’s first Test tour to Australia, which poses a unique set of challenges for the young batsman. While Jaiswal was playing test matches West Indies, South Africa and in India, Australian pitches are known for their extra pace, bounce and swing, making it a challenging environment for even the most experienced batsmen.
Earlier this year, Jaiswal faced difficulties in South Africa, where he struggled to make a significant impact. Conditions in Australia, known for its bounce and speed similar to South Africa, can present similar challenges. However, Jaiswal’s impressive debut for India, with 1,407 runs in 14 Test matches, including three centuries and a high score of 214*, shows that he has the potential to adapt and thrive in tough conditions. Jaiswal’s Australian debut will be a test of his ability to adapt to fast-paced, bouncy pitches. Inspired by Cook’s success, Jaffer’s advice appears to be a reminder for Jaiswal to emulate Cook’s approach — one that combines solid technique with mental toughness.
