Border-Gavaskar Trophy — India vs Australia's Fiercest Test Rivalry
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is contested between India and Australia and is one of cricket's most competitive Test series. Learn its history and greatest moments.
What Is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is the name given to Test series between India and Australia. It is named after two legends of the game: Allan Border, Australia's captain during a defining era, and Sunil Gavaskar, India's greatest-ever opening batter. The trophy was established in 1996 and is now one of cricket's most hotly contested bilateral series.
Why It Matters
India and Australia are two of the strongest Test nations in the world. Their Test rivalry is intense — both teams play attacking cricket, both have had remarkable streaks of home dominance, and both have produced some of cricket's most celebrated players. The Border-Gavaskar series consistently features some of the best Test cricket of any cycle.
India's Dominance (2000s–2020s)
India won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for four consecutive series from 2017 to 2023. The 2018-19 series in Australia saw India win 2-1 in their first-ever Test series victory on Australian soil — a historic achievement. The 2020-21 series, also in Australia, saw India win 2-1 again after being bowled out for 36 (their lowest-ever Test score) in the first innings of the first Test.
The 2020-21 Miracle
India's 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar series win is regarded as one of the greatest Test series victories in history. After being bowled out for 36 at Adelaide, India fielded a depleted injury-ravaged squad for the remaining three Tests, including debutants with minimal first-class experience. They won the Brisbane Test (breaking Australia's Gabba fortress) with a young, injured group of players to win 2-1.
Border-Gavaskar Records
- Highest team total: 705/7 declared — India at Sydney, 2004.
- Most series wins: India lead the series count in the 21st century.
- Most wickets: Anil Kumble and Shane Warne are among the leading wicket-takers.
- Australia last won in India: 2004 under Ricky Ponting (4-0 sweep).
Frequently asked questions
How often is the Border-Gavaskar Trophy played?
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is contested every two years under the ICC Future Tours Programme — alternating between tours of India (4 Tests) and Australia (4 or 5 Tests). The frequency has been consistent since the mid-2000s.
Who has won the most Border-Gavaskar Trophy series?
India have won more editions of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since 2004, including four consecutive series from 2017 to 2023. Australia won a convincing 2024–25 series in Australia 3-1, reclaiming the trophy.