Border Gavaskar trophy preparations begin (X.com)

In an interesting initiative, Cricket Australia (CA) has announced that in the days leading up to the highly anticipated Border Gavaskar Trophy Test series 2024-25, both nations’ ‘A’ teams will play two first-class games to push their selection into the national side. 

Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series is the epitome of the India-Australia rivalry in cricket. For many years, the series has produced exceptional entertainment, player battles, and some beautiful cricketing moments that have only added to the hype.

And now to further boost the anticipation, CA has decided to allow junior players a chance to contest for the main squad by hosting a two-game first class series.

CA Head of Cricket Operations and Scheduling, Peter Roach confirmed that days leading up to the main five-game Tests series, India-A will play two first class games against Australia-A at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay and the MCG from October 31 to November 3 and November 7 to 10 respectively.

These games are apparently organised to allow junior players to push their candidature for the main squad selection.

In addition to the first class games, the Indian side is also expected to play a three-day intra squad practice game at the WACA Ground from November 17.

Notably, the five-game Test series between India and Australia will commence from November 22 with the series opener scheduled at Optus Stadium in Perth. It’s also the first time since 1991-92 that the Border-Gavaskar series has been extended to five games.

Interestingly, Australia has yet to claim the Border-Gavaskar since 2017, as India triumphed in the last four series.

Its important to note that IND-W will also be touring Australia at the same time for an ODI series.