Perth
Australian captain Pat Cummins anticipates an intense battle as his team takes on India in a five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series starting today (Friday). Traditionally a four-game contest, the extended series promises to test the endurance and skills of both teams, Cummins said at a press conference on Thursday
Cummins described the upcoming matches as “attritional” and emphasized the significance of the rivalry. “The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has always been close. A five-Test series makes it even more demanding,” he said.
Despite the IPL auction scheduled in Jeddah on Sunday, the third day of the match, Cummins dismissed concerns about distractions for players. “Most of us have been through auctions before. It doesn’t affect our focus on the game,” he assured.
Australia, seeking to overturn a streak of four consecutive series defeats to India, faces additional pressure on home soil. “Playing at home comes with expectations, but we’re not looking too far ahead. India is a strong side, but we are well-prepared,” Cummins said.
Australia will also introduce debutant Nathan McSweeney, replacing retired opener David Warner. Cummins advised McSweeney to stick to his natural style. “He shouldn’t try to imitate Warner. His strength is making bowlers work hard,” he noted.
Both teams will be led by fast-bowling captains—Cummins for Australia and Jasprit Bumrah for India, filling in for Rohit Sharma, who is on paternity leave. “It’s rare but should happen more often,” Cummins said about pacers in leadership roles.
