Tentative venues for India's Test tour of Australia announced

In the upcoming 2024-25 cricket season, the Indian Cricket Team is set to embark on a pivotal tour Down Under, according to the Future Tours Programme (FTP). The tour promises an exciting five-match Test series against the formidable Australian team, a departure from the conventional four-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy showdown.

The venues for this highly-anticipated series in Australia have been tentatively unveiled, subject to potential alterations. The itinerary offers an amalgamation of modern and traditional cricketing spectacle, encompassing one day-night Test and four day Tests.

The series might kick off with the Perth Test, followed by a thrilling day-night encounter at Adelaide Oval for the second match. The third battle could unfold in Brisbane, a ground that witnessed a historic upset during the 2020-21 series, where India scripted a remarkable victory, shattering Australia's fortress with Rishabh Pant's heroic unbeaten 89* in the final innings, ending Australia's 32-year streak at the illustrious Gabba.

The series' fourth Test is anticipated to grace the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), setting the stage for another intense showdown. Wrapping up proceedings, the fifth Test is slated to take place at the eminent Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), showcasing the charm of Test cricket across diverse Australian landscapes.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy could define India’s dominance overseas

Cricket Australia appears to have nearly locked in these prestigious venues, underscoring the significance of this marquee clash. The stakes are notably high as the India vs Australia Test series will play a crucial role in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25, adding an extra layer of intensity and significance to each encounter. India's recent triumphs on Australian soil, clinching the last two Test series in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 seasons, have set the stage for a riveting battle. 

Amidst their packed schedule, India are set to host Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, respectively. The team eyes the elusive ICC trophy, with the men's T20 World Cup slated for June in the West Indies and the United States. This presents another shot at glory for India, who are determined to break their streak of not being able to win an ICC tournament since 2013, when they had won the Champions Trophy by defeating the hosts (England) in a rain-induced match which went right down to the wire.