Ricky Ponting, the former Australian captain, has expressed his confidence in his country’s ability to win the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India. Ponting believes Australia will be eager to prove themselves after losing the last two Test series at home against India. He anticipates a 3-1 victory for the Aussies, highlighting the significance of a five-Test series, a format that brings back the excitement and intensity that was missing in the recent four-Test series.
Ponting is particularly excited about the return of a five-Test series. He believes the longer format will result in fewer drawn matches, allowing for more decisive outcomes.
While predicting an Australian victory, Ponting also acknowledged India’s strength and pointed to left-arm seamer Khaleel Ahmed as a potential addition to their touring squad. Ponting, who coached Ahmed in the IPL, believes a left-armer could be a valuable asset for India in Australian conditions.
Ponting also highlighted the fierce rivalry between India and Australia, comparing it to the Ashes rivalry against England. He believes the rivalry with India has surpassed the one with South Africa and is now considered almost as intense as the Ashes.
The former Australian captain is looking forward to a competitive series with both teams fielding strong bowling attacks. He anticipates a battle between Australia’s established bowlers and India’s pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj.
However, Ponting also acknowledges that there is still one question mark in the Australian squad: whether Steve Smith should continue opening the batting. Ponting suggests that the decision ultimately rests with Smith, who may need to evaluate if opening is the best position for him. If he decides against it, Australia will likely make a change and bring in another opener.
