3 areas where India's 2024-25 BGT squad is stronger than that of 2020-21
As India gear up for the 2024-25 Border Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), they have assembled a formidable 18-member squad that brings a fresh mix of talent and experience.
With new inclusions and a bolstered line-up, the Indian squad is set to face Australia in a five-match Test series Down Under, beginning on November 22. The ongoing series against New Zealand has been challenging but the selectors have maintained confidence in players, resisting drastic changes.
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and pacer Harshit Rana have earned their maiden Test call-ups, adding depth and versatility to the squad. Compared to the 2020-21 BGT squad that competed and won in Australia, the new team has a few additions that address some of the limitations of the previous squad.
Here is a look at three areas where this squad is stronger than the 2020-21 BGT squad.
3 areas where India's 2024-25 BGT squad is stronger than that of 2020-21
#3 Addition of a seam-bowling all-rounder in Nitish Kumar Reddy
India's search for a dependable seam-bowling all-rounder in Tests has led them to include Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squad, who comes in as a promising prospect. While India had Shardul Thakur and his commendable contributions last time around, Nitish is regarded as a better batter, providing a more balanced option in the lower-middle order.
Although in the shorter format, his recent performances have been impressive and have shown his abilities as a versatile player who can contribute with both the bat and the ball.
His ability to be an aggressive batter while providing support as a fourth seamer gives India some flexibility, especially on the Australian pitches.
#2 Experienced and dynamic batting line-up
Virat Kohli's return for an away BGT series could prove to be a significant boost for India's batting. Although India won the series last time around, Kohli's presence and strong track record in Australia could be a key factor this time. In the 2020-21 series, he left after the opening Test due to the birth of his first child.
In addition to Kohli, the 2024-25 BGT squad includes young and emerging batters such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sarfaraz Khan, both known for their aggressive play and willingness to take on opposition bowlers. Both have a fearless approach, having put up stellar performances at both the domestic and international levels.
Further, Abhimanyu Easwaran's consistent form in domestic cricket and A tours will add to India's top and middle order, which has the potential to take the attack to the Australian bowlers.
#1 Strengthened fast bowling attack with enough back-up options
One of the major strengths this time appears to be the depth of India's pace attack. Jasprit Bumrah will lead a well-rounded pace unit featuring Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Prasidh Krishna, and new entrant Harshit Rana.
In addition to these five pacers, India have included Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, and Khaleel Ahmed as reserves, ensuring robust backup options. With these bowlers, who are more 'hit-the-deck' kind, the team can adapt better to the Australian pitches which are usually fast and bouncy.
The addition of Nitish, who could slot into a seam-bowling role if needed, brings further variety and flexibility, as mentioned earlier.
The squad's combination of seasoned players and fresh talent offers a balanced approach, which is capable of challenging Australia and retaining the Border Gavaskar Trophy.