Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Mitchell Marsh reflects on strong ties and fierce rivalry with India

As Australia prepares to face India in a five-match Test series starting this November, star all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has shed light on the unique blend of camaraderie and competition between the two cricketing giants.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, which begins on November 22 with the first Test at Perth, promises to be a thrilling contest.

Over recent years, India has established a dominant edge in the series, having won the previous four consecutive series against Australia. This includes notable victories on Australian soil in the 2018-19 and 2020-21 seasons.

Historically, India has won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ten times, while Australia has claimed it five times, with their last triumph occurring in the 2014-15 season. Australia's most recent series win in India dates back to 2004-05.

In an interview with Star Sports, Marsh acknowledged the intense on-field rivalry but emphasized the strong friendships that exist between players of both teams. He noted that such series contribute positively to the growth of cricket globally.

"I think it's just the cricket that's been played between the two teams. If you look at the history, the recent history, we've won stuff, they've won stuff. And I think that when it's back and forth like that, it builds that rivalry within yourselves. You know there's great friendships in the Indian team with our team, so there's no hatred. But it's a great on field rivalry, both teams want to win. And Australia versus India, it's another opportunity to grow the game of cricket. Not that cricket needs growing in India, but worldwide. People tune into these big series," Marsh said.

The second Test, scheduled for December 6 to 10 at Adelaide Oval, will be a day-night affair, showcasing the vibrant cricketing atmosphere under the stadium's lights. Following this, The Gabba in Brisbane will host the third Test from December 14 to 18.

The renowned Boxing Day Test, set for December 26 to 30 at Melbourne's iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, will be a major highlight of the series. The final showdown will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 3 to 7.