Not Virat Kohli! Shane Watson names two Indian players who would be biggest threat to Australia in Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Shane Watson speaks about India’s key men for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.

As India gear up for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 series, all eyes would naturally be on star batter Virat Kohli. However, former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson believes that the biggest threat to the Aussies would come from two other key Indian players.

Starting November 22 in Perth, Australia will host India for a five-match test series. This is the first time since the 1991/92 series that both these teams will compete in a five-match rubber.

India currently hold the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, having won the last four series against Australia, including twice on Australian soil.

Shane Watson picks India’s two most important players for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Watson opined that Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah could play pivotal roles in India’s bid to retain the trophy.

Watson highlighted Pant’s explosive batsmanship and his ability to turn a match on its head as major reasons why Australia should be wary of him. Pant was one of India’s standout performers during India’s last tour of Australia, playing a match-winning knock at the Gabba.

“Pant’s innings at the Gabba was something very special. He’s got great memories from that tour, and coming back now, he’s even more experienced and more dangerous,” Watson said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Pant has scored 624 runs from 12 test innings in Australia while maintaining an impressive strike rate of 72.13. His aggressive approach combined with the ability to post big scores makes him a major threat for the Aussies.

Bumrah is exceptional in any conditions: Watson

Bumrah will be leading India’s charge with the ball. Watson praised Bumrah’s versatility and ability to deliver in all conditions, particularly in Australia where he maintains an excellent record.

“Bumrah is exceptional in any conditions, but especially in Australia, his skill to take wickets and trouble batters makes him a massive threat in this series,” Watson added.

Bumrah has taken 32 wickets at a brilliant average of 21.25 in seven tests in Australia, Bumrah would be looking to make a significant impact at the Australian shores.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Cricket on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.