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After an exciting Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series 2024-25former England captain Michael Vaughan revealed his combination Australia-India XI, a line-up that has ignited lively debates among cricket lovers around the world. Australia’s high-stakes series triumph over India played a key role in shaping Vaughan’s selection. His team showcases some of the standout performances from fiercely competitive encounters, offering a blend of young talent and experienced players who have left an indelible mark on the tournament.
Young openers
Sam Konstas: A surprising but promising selection by Vaughan, underlining his confidence in the young batsman’s potential. Konstas made his Test debut in a high-pressure match in Melbourne and showed maturity beyond his years, scoring 113 runs in two matches. His calm 60 in his debut innings caught the attention of the cricketing world, proving that he belongs on the international stage.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Jaiswal’s consistent performance and ability to adapt to different conditions earned him a well-deserved spot at the top. The young Indian opener was the leading scorer for the visitors, amassing an impressive 391 runs at an average of 43.44. His tally included two fifties and a scintillating century, highlighting his ability to build innings under pressure.
Dynamic midfield
KL Rahul: Vaughan fielded him at No.3 and Rahul showed his experience and versatility throughout the series. The Indian batsman contributed significantly, amassing 276 runs, including two tough 50s. His ability to anchor innings while stepping up when needed made him a vital cog in the lineup.
Steve Smith: Vaughan opted for Australian Steve Smith at No.4, a position the former captain has made his own. Smith was instrumental in Australia’s success, scoring 314 runs, which included two masterful centuries that demonstrated his unmatched skill and temperament in Test cricket.
Travis Head: Australia’s star batsman Travis Head cemented his place in the combined XI with a phenomenal run, topping the run charts. Head amassed 448 runs, including one fifty-two commanding centuries, underscoring his dominance and reliability in the middle order.
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Goal keeper and all-rounder
Rishabh Pant: For the wicketkeeper role, Vaughan trusted the dynamic Indian Rishabh Pant. The 27-year-old thrived under pressure, scoring 225 runs in the series. Pant’s fearless batting and ability to save his team from uncertain situations made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Ravindra Jadeja: A natural choice at No.7, Jadeja brought his all-round brilliance to Vaughan’s XI. The experienced Indian all-rounder contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 135 runs in three Tests and also claiming four crucial wickets. Jadeja’s versatility added depth and balance to the side.
The brilliance of the bowling attack
Jasprit Bumrah: Leading the bowling attack, Bumrah was the best performer of the series and a unanimous choice for Vaughan’s XI. The Indian pacer was adjudged the player of the series after a scintillating performance in which he took 32 wickets, often providing spells to win.
Pat Cummins: Australia’s captain and chief bowler, Pat Cummins, was 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 Starc: Known for his lethal pace and early strike ability, Starc has played a key role in breaking the opposition batting line-ups. The left-arm quick ended the run with 18 wickets, showing his ability to provide breakthroughs when his team needed them most.
Scott Boland: Boland’s inclusion in Vaughan’s XI was well deserved, thanks to his accuracy and key contributions in the closing stages of the series. The Australian seamer took 21 wickets, highlighting his effectiveness in taking advantage of the conditions and adding depth to a formidable bowling unit.
