Here are five key areas for Australia to focus on to reclaim Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia will enter the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India with a solid, settled lineup. However, to reclaim the trophy and edge closer to securing a spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, there are critical areas the team needs to address. Here's what Australia must focus on:

1. Choosing and Supporting Khawaja’s Opening Partner
Australia needs to solidify their opening pair by selecting a partner for Usman Khawaja. Ricky Ponting recently suggested that Nathan McSweeney, who has shown promise in recent matches, could be a strong option. Once chosen, the selectors should stick with the opener to give him confidence and time to adapt, allowing stability at the top.

2. Rotating the Fast Bowlers
With a challenging schedule of five Tests, Australia’s pace bowlers will need careful management. To keep the likes of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood fresh, Australia could rotate their quicks. This would allow bowlers like Michael Neser and Scott Boland—proven performers when given opportunities—to step in without overworking the regulars.

3. Encouraging Middle-Order Batsmen to Play Their Game
In high-stress moments, Australia’s middle-order—Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Mitch Marsh—will need to play their natural, aggressive game. Allowing these players the freedom to counter-attack can help Australia shift momentum and put India on the back foot during crucial stages of the series.

4. Targeting Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Early
Australia’s bowlers must aim to dismiss India’s key batsmen, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, early in their innings. If successful, this approach would put pressure on India’s less experienced players, potentially giving Australia an advantage.

5. Finding a Fifth Bowling Option
With all-rounder Cameron Green unavailable due to injury, Australia may need creative solutions for a fifth bowling option. Mitch Marsh is likely to fill in with some overs, but top-order batter Marnus Labuschagne could also step in if needed to relieve the main bowlers.

As Australia gears up for the series, executing these strategies could be essential in helping them reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and strengthen their position in the WTC race.