India‘s upcoming five-match Test series against Australia, Starting November 22, the two countries will compete in a five-Test series for the first time in three decades. The latest example was in the 1991-92 season, a series which caused great excitement and anticipation both in the cricketing world and among former players who enthusiastically gave their predictions about key performances.
This series carries significant weight, especially when it sits above India and Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) score table. This presents an important opportunity for both teams to cement their place in the WTC finals. As these two giants of world cricket clash once again, memories of their iconic past encounters are still fresh in the minds of fans.
Ricky Ponting’s bold prediction: Series leading run-scorer
Former Australian captain Ricky Pontingthe undisputed cricket legend, made bold predictions for Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series leading scorer. Ponting highlighted two players as potential top contenders for the award: Australia’s Steve Smith and of India Rishabh pants.
“Leading run scorer, I’ll go – Steve Smith or Rishabh Pant,” Ponting said confidently Sanjana Ganesan during a recent interview ICC Preview Show.
Known for his insightful commentary and in-depth knowledge of the game, Ponting first discussed Smith’s role in the upcoming series. He noted that Smith’s return to his customary No. 4 position could greatly benefit his run-scoring potential. Ponting’s analysis suggests that Smith’s move back to No.4 would not only give him greater stability, but also allow him to play a more decisive role in Australia’s batting.
“Smith is back at No. 4 and this could be a significant change for him. This is where he has had most of his success and with this change I feel he has more to prove, perhaps showing that opening the batting was a mistake. “His best years came at No. 4 and I see him continuing to improve.” added the 49-year-old.
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On the other hand, Ponting also sees Pant as a formidable opponent, highlighting Pant’s fearless and aggressive batting style. Ponting explained how Pant’s presence in the middle order, where he will face less difficult conditions as the ball loses its luster, can give him an edge in scoring runs:
“Rishabh Pant is another player I see as a potential leading scorer. With his form going into this series and the fact that he will be batting in the middle order, this could really work in his favour. The ball will be softer and there is always the possibility of an attack in the middle innings where he shines. If he can continue, he will be a real winner for India.” the former Australian captain reckoned.
Best wicketkeeper in BGT 2024-25: Ponting’s confidence
Moving to the bowling department, Ponting’s prediction about the leading wicket-taker was clear: Josh Hazlewood. Ponting showed the strength of Australia’s pace attack, including Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, but stressed that Hazlewood’s consistent fitness and peak form gives him the upper hand in future series.
“Looking at Australia’s pace attack, I think Josh Hazlewood is at the peak of his powers right now. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins may not play every match, but Hazlewood is in excellent form and could play all five Tests. “His accuracy, control and ability to put pressure on the batsmen will make him Australia’s leading wicket-taker.” Ponting concluded.
