Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, starting from November 22. With five Test matches lined up across iconic Australian venues, this year’s competition promises to add new chapters to one of the game’s most celebrated rivalries. The first Test will take place in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and finally Sydney.
Let’s take a look back at the history of this trophy and the memorable moments between India and Australia.
Origins of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
While India and Australia have faced each other in Test cricket since 1947, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy was first introduced in 1996. Named after two cricket legends, Sunil Gavaskar of India and Allan Border of Australia, the trophy celebrates the achievements of both players, who were the first to cross the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket for their respective countries. This prestigious series has since become a benchmark for both nations, with each battle on the field carrying immense significance.
Series Wins and Results
To date, 16 series have been played under the Border-Gavaskar Trophy banner. Here’s how the series wins stack up:
- India: 10 series wins
- Australia: 5 series wins
- Drawn: 1 series (2003-04 in Australia)
India has especially dominated in recent years, winning the last four consecutive series. Notably, Australia’s last series win came in 2014. Since then, India has clinched two back-to-back series in Australia (2018-19 and 2020-21), becoming the first Asian team to win a Test series on Australian soil.
Test Match Records and Statistics
Since the inaugural Border-Gavaskar series in 1996, the two teams have clashed in 57 Tests. Out of these, India has won 24 matches, Australia has won 21, and 12 matches have ended in a draw. This closely contested battle reflects the competitive spirit both teams bring to the field.
Top Performers in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy
Most Runs: Sachin Tendulkar
Legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the highest runs in Border-Gavaskar encounters. In 34 matches, Tendulkar amassed 3,262 runs at an impressive average of 56.24, with 9 centuries and 16 half-centuries. His top score remains an iconic 241*.
Australian great Ricky Ponting follows, scoring 2,555 runs in 29 matches at an average of 54.36, including 8 centuries and 12 half-centuries, with his best knock being 257.
Most Wickets: Nathan Lyon
Australia’s Nathan Lyon has claimed the most wickets in the series, with 116 dismissals in 26 matches, averaging 32.40. Known for his consistency, Lyon has taken four 4-wicket hauls and nine 5-wicket hauls, with his best performance being 8/50.
India’s Ravichandran Ashwin comes a close second with 114 wickets in 22 matches, averaging 28.36. Ashwin has seven 5-wicket hauls to his name, with his best performance being 7/103.
The Journey Ahead
As India and Australia prepare to face off again, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises new records, intense rivalry, and unforgettable cricketing moments. With India leading in recent series and Australia eager to reclaim the title, this year’s competition is set to be yet another thrilling chapter in cricket history.
