after exciting Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series 2024-25former England captain Michael Vaughan Already announced his combination Australia-India XI, a line-up that sparked heated debate among cricket lovers across the world. Warne’s selection played a key role in Australia’s win over India in the high-stakes series. His team put in some of the best performances in a tough competition, bringing together young talent and an experienced stalwart who left an indelible mark on the championship.
young opener
Sam Constas: Warne’s selection was a surprising but promising one, underscoring his faith in the young batsman’s potential. Constas made his Test debut in a high-pressure match in Melbourne and showed maturity beyond his years by scoring 113 runs in two games. His 60 in the first innings caught the attention of the cricketing world and proved that he belongs on the international stage.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Jaiswal’s consistent performance and ability to adapt to different conditions have earned him a well-deserved spot at the top of the list. The young Indian opener is the leading run-scorer for the visitors, amassing an impressive 391 runs at an average of 43.44. His score included two fifties and a brilliant century, highlighting his skill in building innings under pressure.
Dynamic in sequence
Kuala Lumpur Rahul: Rahul, batted at No. 3 by Vaughan, showed his experience and versatility throughout the series. The Indian batsman made a huge contribution, scoring 276 runs, including two gritty 50s. His ability to stabilize the innings while also accelerating when needed makes him an important cog in the lineup.
Steve Smith: Warne picked Australia’s Steve Smith at No. 4, a position created by the former captain himself. Smith played a major role in Australia’s success, scoring 314 runs, including two brilliant centuries, displaying his unrivaled skill and temperament in Test cricket.
Travis Hyde: Australia’s star batsman Travis Head cemented his place in the starting XI with a superb series to top the run-sheet. Head accumulated 448 matches, including a 150 and 2 centuries, underlining his dominance and reliability in the middle order.
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goalkeeper and all-rounder
Ritha Pant: For the role of keeper, Warne trusted India’s dynamic Rishabh Pant. The 27-year-old excelled under pressure, scoring 225 runs throughout the series. Pant’s fearless batting and ability to rescue the team from dangerous situations make him a valuable asset to the team.
Ravindra Jadeja: Jadeja is a natural choice at pick seven and brings all-round talent to Warne’s XI. The veteran Indian player has contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 135 runs in three Tests while also taking four crucial wickets. Jadeja’s versatility adds depth and balance to the side.
The brilliance of bowling attack
Jasprit Bumrah: Leading the bowling attack, Bumrah was the standout performer in the series and was a unanimous choice in Vaughan’s XI. The Indian pacer was adjudged the Player of the Series for his stellar performance in which he took 32 wickets and often created match-winning spells.
Pat Cummins: Australia captain and spearhead bowler Pat Cummins is an automatic selection. At the end of the series, he had the second-highest wicket haul with 25 scalps, delivering consistently under pressure and leading his team with aplomb.
Mitchell Stark: Starc is known for his lethal pace and ability to strike out early, playing a key role in dismantling the opposition’s batting line-up. The left-arm fastman ended the series with 18 wickets, showcasing his skills in providing breakthrough when the team needs it most.
Scott Boland: Boland’s inclusion in Warne’s XI was well-deserved, thanks to his accuracy and crucial contribution in the closing stages of the series. The Australian seamer took 21 wickets, highlighting his efficiency in exploiting conditions and adding depth to a strong bowling unit.