The stage is set for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, and Australian spin maestro Nathan Lyon has already pinpointed his key targets. In a recent interview with Star Sports, Lyon highlighted Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Rishabh Pant as crucial wickets for the Australian bowling attack.
While acknowledging the formidable Indian batting lineup, Lyon emphasized the importance of dismissing these three players. “Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant are probably going to be the three really big ones,” he said. “But then you have still got Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja, and who else will come out—another five, I am not sure. But it is a pretty amazing line-up they have got, so it is going to be a massive challenge. As I said, if we, as a bowling group, are good enough for long periods, hopefully, we can challenge their defense.”
Virat Kohli has a formidable record in Australia, having amassed 1,352 runs at an average of 54.08 in 13 Tests. He boasts six centuries and four half-centuries in 25 innings, with a top score of 169. Overall, against Australia, Kohli has an impressive 2,042 runs in 25 Tests at an average of 47.48, including eight centuries and five half-centuries.
Rohit Sharma, in seven Tests Down Under, has compiled 408 runs in 14 innings with an average of 31.38. He has three half-centuries, with his highest score being 63*. Overall, in 12 Tests against Australia, Sharma has accumulated 708 runs at an average of 33.71, including one century and three half-centuries.
Rishabh Pant has proven to be a force in Australia, scoring 624 runs in seven matches and 12 innings at an average exceeding 62. He has one century and two half-centuries, with a remarkable highest score of 159*.
The series commences on November 22 with the first Test in Perth. The following Tests will be held in various Australian cities, including the day-night Test in Adelaide from December 6 to 10. Brisbane will host the third Test from December 14 to 18, followed by the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne from December 26 to 30. The series concludes in Sydney from January 3 to 7.
Lyon has a stellar record against India, having claimed 121 wickets in 27 Tests at an average of 31.56. With both teams boasting exceptional talent, the Border-Gavaskar series promises to be a thrilling battle.
