With the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy set to begin on November 22, cricket fans are eager to see how India performs against Australia on their turf. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting, however, doesn’t seem optimistic about India’s chances in the series.

Based on recent form and team composition, Ponting sees Australia as clear favorites and expects India to struggle. India enters the series after a rare 0-3 whitewash at home.

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In Ponting’s opinion, Australia is likely to win the series, with India possibly securing only one win out of the five Tests.

Why does Ricky Ponting see Australia as favorites in Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

Ponting shared his predictions on the ICC Review, where he outlined why he believes Australia has the upper hand. According to him, Australia’s team looks more stable and experienced, particularly in their own conditions. Australia has a strong record at home, which adds to the challenge for India.

“I think India will win a Test match somewhere through the five Test matches. But I still think now, Australia probably look a bit more settled, a bit more experienced, and we know that they’re a very hard team to beat at home. So, I’ll stick with the 3-1,” said Ricky Ponting on ICC Review.

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What did Ricky Ponting say on absence of Mohammed Shami?

One of Ponting’s main concerns is India’s weakened bowling attack. Mohammed Shami, a key pacer for India, has been ruled out of the series due to a heel injury sustained during the 2023 ODI World Cup.

His absence leaves a gap in India’s bowling lineup, and Ponting believes this will make it tough for India to get the 20 wickets needed to win a Test match.

“Probably more so now. Shami just leaves such a big hole in that bowling group. Taking 20 wickets in a Test match for India is going to be the biggest challenge. I think they’ll bat well enough out here with the current group of batters that they’ve got,” he added.

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In Shami’s absence, India’s pace attack will have young players such as Prasidh Krishna and Harshit Rana, alongside experienced bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Akash Deep, and Mohammed Siraj. However, Australia’s batting strength, combined with their home advantage, makes Ponting skeptical about India’s ability to consistently take wickets.

What is India’s recent record in Australia?

Interestingly, India has won its last two Test series in Australia, achieving historic victories in 2018-19 and 2020-21. This record might give the team some confidence, but Ponting’s comments suggest he sees the current Indian squad as less equipped for the challenge.

The upcoming series is crucial for India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final, adding extra weight to each match.