ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has confidently reaffirmed his prediction that Australia will come out on top in the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against India. Ponting had previously forecasted a 3-1 victory for Australia in August. After watching India’s recent series loss to New Zealand, coupled with the injury of key pacer Mohammed Shami, the former Australian captain feels even more certain of his prediction.
Australia’s Home Advantage: A Key Factor
Ponting highlighted that Australia’s home conditions would be a significant factor in the series, with India facing an uphill battle to take the 20 wickets required to win a Test match. Shami’s absence from the Indian squad, which leaves a significant hole in their bowling attack, will likely make that task even harder. Although Ponting acknowledges that India may win one of the five Test matches, he remains confident in Australia’s overall strength and depth.
“I think India will win a Test match somewhere through the five Test matches,” Ponting stated, “but I still think Australia probably look a bit more settled, a bit more experienced and we know they’re a very hard team to beat at home.”
Ricky Ponting’s Prediction For Leading Run-Scorer
As for the leading run-scorer of the series, Ponting named two players who he believes have the potential to top the chart: Steve Smith and Rishabh Pant. Ponting sees Steve Smith, who is set to return to his familiar No.4 position after a brief stint as an opener, as one of the favorites to accumulate the most runs. Smith’s move back to No.4, according to Ponting, will allow him to prove himself in his preferred role.
“I think Smith, the fact that he’s moved back down from opener to No.4, probably makes it feel like he’s got more of a point to prove,” Ponting explained.
On the other hand, Ponting also has high hopes for Rishabh Pant, particularly given his form and the likelihood of him batting in the middle order when the ball is older, and its hardness diminished. Pant’s aggressive and dynamic style of batting could make him a key figure in the series.
Josh Hazlewood: Australia’s Leading Wicket-Taker
Ponting has backed Josh Hazlewood to finish as the leading wicket-taker of the series, praising his consistency and current peak form. While Australia’s pace attack features other high-profile bowlers such as Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, Ponting believes Hazlewood is in the best shape to feature in all five Tests.
“I think Hazlewood out of the Australian quicks is probably at the peak of his powers more than the other guys,” Ponting noted. “So I’ll go with him for the leading wicket-taker.”
India’s Challenge: The Absence Of Mohammed Shami
India’s bowling attack will undoubtedly feel the absence of Mohammed Shami, one of their most experienced fast bowlers, who has been ruled out of the series due to injury. Ponting emphasized that Shami’s unavailability would make it even harder for India to take the necessary 20 wickets required to win each Test. This, combined with Australia’s settled lineup and strong home record, gives the hosts a significant edge going into the series.
Key Dates: India vs Australia Test Series Begins November 22
The first Test of this critical ICC World Test Championship series is scheduled to begin on November 22, with both teams at the top of the WTC standings. This series could prove decisive in determining the finalists for the ongoing WTC cycle. As the battle for Test supremacy continues, all eyes will be on how both teams perform in what promises to be a thrilling five-match contest.
