Ricky Ponting Lauds Indian Batters Ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting praises Indian batters for adapting well to overseas conditions ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The series will commence on November 22 in Perth, and India looks to extend their dominant streak against Australia.

Ahead of the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting has applauded Indian batters for their adeptness in adapting to overseas conditions. The eagerly awaited series between India and Australia is set to kick off on November 22, with the inaugural Test match scheduled in Perth.

In recent years, India has established a commanding advantage over Australia in the series, clinching victories in their last four encounters. Notably, India secured back-to-back series wins in Australia during the 2018-19 and 2020-21 seasons. Overall, India has bagged the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 10 times, compared to Australia's five, with the latter's last win dating back to the 2014-15 series. Their latest triumph on Indian soil was in the 2004-05 season.

Speaking to Sky Sports Cricket, Ponting remarked that Indian batters no longer feel intimidated by pitches like Gabba or Optus Oval. "Securing a win at the Gabba is no easy feat, and their batsmen have shown remarkable adjustment to foreign conditions. They don't seem as daunted by the Gabba or Optus Oval. It could be due to careful player selection, or perhaps they have simply shed their fear of performing on big stages," Ponting commented.

Highlighting the IPL's impact, Ponting remarked, "Over the past decade, the IPL has served as a high-pressure arena, akin to a World Cup for these young players. This has bred a new generation of fearless, aggressive batters unafraid of failure."

He also praised India's fast-bowling arsenal, citing its impressive depth. "India's fast-bowling depth is commendable. Strong leadership over the last 6-7 years, starting from Kohli's captaincy and followed by Dravid, has revolutionized their cricket. The influence of figures like Kohli and the presence of star players have been significant," Ponting added.

The series progresses with the day-night Test in Adelaide from December 6 to 10, followed by the third Test at Gabba from December 14 to 18. The customary Boxing Day Test will unfold at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from December 26 to 30, setting the stage for the series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7, promising an electrifying conclusion to the series.

(With inputs from agencies.)