Yet exhilarating Border-Gavaskar Award Series for 2024-25former England captain Michael Vaughan He has unveiled his community Australia and India XI, the lineup that sparked lively discussions among cricket fans across the world. Australia's victory over India in the high-stakes series played a pivotal role in shaping Vaughan's selections. His team produces some of the most impressive performances during intense competitive encounters, presenting a mix of young talent and experienced players who have left an indelible mark on the tournament.
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Sam Constas: A surprise but promising selection by Vaughan, highlighting his confidence in the potential of the young batsman. Konstas made his Test debut in a high-pressure Melbourne match and showed maturity beyond his years, scoring 113 runs in two matches. His sixty on debut caught the attention of the cricketing world, proving that he belonged on the international stage.
Yashavi Jaiswal: Jaiswal's consistent performances and ability to adapt to different conditions has earned him a well-deserved place at the top. The young Indian pacer was the top run-scorer for the visitors, notching up 391 runs at an average of 43.44. His tally included two fifty and a scintillating century, underscoring his knack for building innings under pressure.
Dynamic middle system
Kuala Lumpur Rahul: Placed at number three by Vaughan, Rahul showed his experience and versatility throughout the series. The Indian batsman contributed significantly, amassing 276 runs, including a brave fifty. His ability to anchor the innings while also accelerating when needed has made him a vital cog in the lineup.
Steve Smith: Vaughan picked Australian Steve Smith at number four, a position held by the former captain himself. Smith was instrumental in Australia's success, scoring 314 runs, which included two brilliant centuries that demonstrated his unparalleled skill and temperament in Test cricket.
Travis Head: Australian star Travis Head has cemented his place in the unified lineup with an incredible run, topping the playlists. Head has amassed 448 runs, including a commanding 52 centuries, underscoring his dominance and reliability in the middle order.
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Wicket-keeper and all-rounder
Rishabh Pant: For the wicket-keeping role, Vaughan trusted Indian dynamo Rishabh Pant. The 27-year-old performed under pressure, scoring 225 runs across the series. Pant's fearless batting and ability to rescue his team from perilous situations made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Ravindra Jadeja: A natural pick at number seven, Jadeja brought his all-round brilliance to Vaughan's XI. The Indian veteran contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 135 runs in three Tests while also taking four crucial wickets. Jadeja's versatility added depth and balance to the side.
The bowling attack shined
Jasprit Bumrah: Leading the bowling attack, Bumrah was the standout performer of the series and a unanimous pick for Vaughan's XI. The Indian was named as the man of the series after a stellar performance that saw him take 32 wickets, often providing match-winning spells.
Pat cumin: Australian captain and bowler Pat Cummins is automatically included. He finished the series as the second highest wicket-taker with 25 scalps, consistently delivering under pressure and leading his team with aplomb.
Mitchell Stark: Renowned for his lethal speed and ability to strike early, Starc played a pivotal role in dismantling opposition lineups. The left-arm pacer finished the series with 18 wickets, showing his knack for providing breakthroughs when his team needed it most.
Scott Boland: Boland's inclusion in Vaughan's XI was well deserved, thanks to his accuracy and crucial contributions in the final stages of the series. The Australian seamer took 21 wickets, underscoring his effectiveness in exploiting the conditions and adding depth to the formidable bowling unit.
