Border-Gavaskar Trophy on par with Ashes, says Mitchell Starc
What's the story
Star pacer Mitchell Starc has equated the iconic Border-Gavaskar Trophy held between India and Australia to the prestigious Ashes series.
This is due to the expansion of the series to five Tests, a first in over three decades.
The upcoming Border-Gavaskar series is scheduled to commence in November Down Under.
"Being five matches now it's probably right on par with an Ashes series," Starc told Wide World of Sports.
Series significance
Australia's quest for Border-Gavaskar Trophy
As mentioned, the Border-Gavaskar series is conducted between India and Australia in every three-four years.
Australia last beat India in a Test series in the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (2-0). India avenged the loss by winning the loss with a 2-1 win at home. The series was embroiled in controversies.
India then became the only Asian side with a Test series win in Australia (2018/19). They also won the 2020/21 series Down Under before beating Australia at home (2023).
Ashes
What about the Ashes?
The Ashes, a Test series played between England and Australia, has a significant history. It is regarded as one of the most competitive rivalries in the format.
The two nations take on each other in an epic five-match Test series.
The Ashes series is held at least once every two years, alternatively by England and Australia.
Career focus
Starc's commitment to Test cricket
Starc will play a pivotal role in the impending home Test series against India.
The Aussie pacer, who is 11 matches away from his 100th Test, has no plans to retire from red-ball cricket.
He is reducing his white-ball commitments to extend his Test career as much as possible.
"Every time I get to wear the baggy green cap it feels very special," he said.
He also confirmed that he will be prioritizing Tests over other formats in the future.
Upcoming matches
Starc's future plans and commitments
Starc is set to travel feature in the white-ball series against England. He also plans to turn out for New South Wales in domestic cricket before the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
"The Tests will always be taking precedence for me," he reiterated.
He also mentioned that Australia has seven consecutive Tests lined up, including five against India and two in Sri Lanka.