Here's why Sunil Gavaskar was absent from Border-Gavaskar Trophy presentation

During the presentation ceremony of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Sunil Gavaskar was notably absent from the stage. However, Cricket Australia has now admitted that not inviting the Indian legend was a mistake.  

A spokesperson for Cricket Australia acknowledged the oversight, stating, "We recognize that it would have been much better if both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar were present on stage together. Gavaskar also felt the absence during the ceremony."  

Former Australian captain Allan Border handed the trophy to Australian skipper Pat Cummins. Gavaskar, despite being present at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), was not invited on stage, sparking widespread criticism.  

Reacting to the situation, Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment, saying, "It would have been nice to be part of the presentation ceremony. It would have been a great moment to present the trophy alongside my friend Allan Border." He added, "I was there at the ground, and it doesn’t matter that Australia won. It’s about celebrating the game."  

Cricket Australia had previously decided that if Australia won the series, Allan Border would present the trophy, while Gavaskar would do so if India emerged victorious.