SIX PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN INDIA vs AUSTRALIA TEST SERIES

Virat Kohli has scored 8119 Test runs in 104 matches, and the Aussies are his 2nd favourite opponent, as the 34-year-old has amassed 1682 runs against them in just 20 games...

- ABHINAV TYAGI

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy between India and Australia will commence on February 9 in India. The upcoming series is crucial for the home team and will impact their qualification chances for the World Test Championship 2021-23. The 2021-23 WTC cycle is nearing its end, with the final scheduled at the Oval, London, in June. Australia are on top of the table with 75.56 PCT, while India sit one spot below them with 58.93 PCT. The Aussies have already qualified for the final. India will make it to the final if they beat or draw the series against the Pat Cummins-led team. Australia have announced the 18-member list for the tour, while India named the squad for just the first two Test matches. This article will focus on the six players to watch out for, who could emerge as the match-winners.

6. VIRAT KOHLI: Former India skipper Virat Kohli is in hot form in the white ball format. The 34-year-old has scored three hundred in the last five innings but hasn't managed to end his slump in red-ball cricket. However, one cannot rule out Kohli's abilities in big-stage events and against Australia. Virat Kohli has scored 8119 Test runs in 104 matches, and the Aussies are his 2nd favourite opponent, as the 34-year-old has amassed 1682 runs against them in just 20 games. Kohli has struck seven hundred against Australia, the most against any other Test nation.

5. RAVICHANDRAN ASHWIN: