Josh Hazlewood Test. (Photo Source : Getty Images)
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood recently expressed his excitement and caution about the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series. With the five-match Test series set to begin on November 22, Hazlewood opened up about the formidable challenge that India presents, even on Australian soil.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has been a fierce rivalry between Australia and India for years. However, recently the series has gone in India’s favour, with the side winning the last four bilateral Test series between the two nations.
Australia’s last series victory against India dates back to 2014-15, under the leadership of Michael Clarke. Hazlewood, a key player in Australia’s bowling attack, is aware of the significance of this upcoming series.
“There are quite a few players who have never beaten India in a Test series. It’s quite astounding to say that. That’s one we need to tick off, definitely, in particular at home – we should pretty much win every series here at home,” Hazlewood was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
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They’ve got unbelievable depth in all formats: Josh Hazlewood
While recalling Australia’s dominant performance in the Adelaide Test of 2020-21, where they bowled India out for a mere 36 runs, Hazlewood also acknowledged India’s remarkable spirit and depth.
“That last series we obviously bowled them out for 36 in Adelaide and we thought here we go, [we are] back at home [and] confident on these grounds. People say we played India B in that last Test, but they can sometimes be stronger than the best team. They’ve got unbelievable depth in all formats and we are starting to see that now,” he added.
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The 2020-21 series saw India make a stunning comeback after the Adelaide debacle, winning the series 2-1 despite missing key players, including skipper Virat Kohli. The victory at the Gabba in Brisbane, where Australia hadn’t lost a Test match since 1988, was particularly memorable and is still remembered by Indian fans.