After the fun Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 2024-25former England captain Michael Vaughan he revealed his combination Australia-India XI, the series that has created controversy among cricket fans around the world. Australia's victory over India in the top-flight series played a major role in shaping Vaughan's decision. His team showcases some of the most impressive performances from the fierce competition, offering young talent and experienced professionals who have left an indelible mark on the competition.
Young openers
Sam Konstas: A surprising but confident decision by Vaughan, showing his confidence in the batsmen's abilities. Konstas made his Test debut at Melbourne's fast bowlers and showed maturity beyond his years, scoring 113 runs in two games. The 60 songs he recorded on his debut attracted worldwide attention, proving his status as an international star.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Jaiswal's consistent performance and versatility made him a perfect fit for the top spot. The young Indian opener was the top scorer for the visitors, scoring an impressive 391 runs at an average of 43.44. His results included fifties and fifties, highlighting his ability to build innings under pressure.
Dynamic central system
KL Rahul: After being put at number 3 by Vaughan, Rahul showed his experience and versatility in all the results. The Indian batsmen contributed a lot, amassing 276 runs, including two fifties. His ability to string innings while running when needed makes him a valuable asset in the lineup.
Steve Smith: Vaughan picked Australia's Steve Smith at number 4, a position the former captain has made himself. Smith contributed to Australia's success, scoring 314 runs, which included two centuries that marked his unparalleled talent in Test cricket.
Travis Head: Australia's star batsman Travis Head cemented his place in the mixed XI with a stunning series, topping the charts. The head collected 448 trips, which has fifty-two years of rule, emphasizing his control and his reliability in the center.
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The wicketkeeper is an all-rounder
Rishabh Pant: For the wicket-keeping role, Vaughan trusted India's Rishabh Pant. The 27-year-old delivered under pressure, recording 225 runs in the series. Pant's fearless batting and ability to save his side from trouble made him a valuable asset to the team.
Ravindra Jadeja: The natural choice for No. 7, Jadeja brought all his wisdom to Vaughan's XI. The former India all-rounder contributed with bat and ball, scoring 135 runs in three Tests while also picking up four important wickets. Jadeja's versatility added depth and stability to the side.
Bowling attack intelligence
Jasprit Bumrah: Spearheading the bowling threat, Bumrah was the top performer in the series and the pick of the pack for Vaughan's XI. The Indian pacer was named the Player of the Series after a brilliant performance that saw him take 32 wickets, often producing match-winning wickets.
Pat Cummins: Australia's great manager and future bowler, Pat Cummins, was included. He finished the series as the second-highest wicket-taker with 25 scalps, consistently delivering under pressure and leading his team with aplomb.
Mitchell Starc: Known for his lethal pace and his ability to strike early, Starc played a vital role in breaking up the opposition's batting lines. The left-hander ended the tournament with 18 wickets, showing his ability to help his team in dire need.
Scott Boland: Boland's inclusion in Vaughan's XI paid off handsomely, thanks to his accuracy and contribution in the latter stages of the series. The Australian seamer took 21 wickets, proving his ability to make the most of the conditions and adding depth to a formidable bowling unit.