The Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) has been a celebrated Test cricket series between India and Australia since 1996, named in honour of two cricketing legends—India’s Sunil Gavaskar and Australia’s Allan Border.
Known for its intense competition and challenging pitches, the BGT has showcased the skills of many cricketing greats. Spinners, in particular, have had a crucial role, often deciding the fate of matches on subcontinental and Australian wickets alike.
Indian and Australian spinners have left an indelible mark on the series, turning games with their ability to extract turns and bounce.
Here’s the list of the most successful spinners in BGT history who have excelled with their skills, match-winning spells, and memorable performances on the biggest stage for Test cricket between these two nations.
List of Most Spinners in BGT For India and Australia
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, contested between India and Australia, has seen remarkable performances from spinners over the years. According to ESPNcricinfo, the following spinners have emerged as the most successful in this prestigious series:
Player | Country | Span | Matches | Inns | Bowling Style | Wickets in BGT |
Nathan Lyon | Australia | 2011-2023 | 26 | 47 | Right-arm off-spin | 116 |
Ravichandran Ashwin | India | 2011-2023 | 22 | 42 | Right-arm off-spin | 114 |
Anil Kumble | India | 1996-2008 | 20 | 38 | Right-arm leg-spin | 111 |
Harbhajan Singh | India | 1998-2013 | 18 | 35 | Right-arm off-spin | 95 |
Shane Warne | Australia | 1998-2004 | 14 | 29 | Right-arm leg-spin | 89 |
Bishan Singh Bedi | India | 1967-1977 | 5 | 10 | Left-arm orthodox spin | 57 |
Ravindra Jadeja | India | 2013-2023 | 16 | 30 | Left-arm orthodox spin | 40 |
Stephen O'Keefe | Australia | 2017-2017 | 4 | 7 | Left-arm orthodox spin | 19 |
Brad Hogg | Australia | 2001-2003 | 7 | 11 | Left-arm wrist-spin | 17 |
Kuldeep Yadav | India | 2017-2019 | 2 | 3 | Left-arm wrist-spin (chinaman) | 16 |
Allan Border | Australia | 1978-1994 | 15 | 25 | Left-arm orthodox spin (part-time) | 14 |
Jason Krejza | Australia | 2008-2013 | 2 | 4 | Right-arm off-spin | 13 |
Simon Katich | Australia | 2001-2010 | 11 | 20 | Left-arm orthodox spin (part-time) | 12 |
Manoj Prabhakar | India | 1984-1996 | 7 | 13 | Right-arm medium-fast, occasionally spin | 11 |
Mark Waugh | Australia | 1996-2001 | 10 | 11 | Right-arm off-spin (part-time) | 8 |
Venkatesh Prasad | India | 1996-2001 | 4 | 8 | Right-arm medium-fast, occasionally spin | 7 |
Srinath Aravind | India | 1998-2001 | 2 | 3 | Left-arm orthodox spin | 6 |
Washington Sundar | India | 2021-2021 | 1 | 2 | Right-arm off-spin | 4 |
Who are the top Indian spinners to watch out for in the upcoming BGT series?
As the Border Gavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia approaches, several Indian spinners are poised to make significant contributions. Here are the top spinners to keep an eye on:
1. Ravichandran Ashwin
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-spin
- Wickets in Australia: 39 wickets in 10 Tests
- Ashwin is the leading wicket-taker among current Indian bowlers in Australia, with a proven ability to adapt and perform under pressure. He has taken 39 wickets at an average of 42.15, showcasing his skill and experience over multiple tours.
2. Ravindra Jadeja
- Bowling Style: Left-arm orthodox spin
- Wickets in Australia: 14 wickets in 4 Tests
- Jadeja has been effective in Australian conditions, maintaining a low economy rate and providing crucial breakthroughs. His best figures of 4/62 highlight his capability to impact games significantly.
3. Kuldeep Yadav
- Bowling Style: Left-arm wrist-spin (chinaman)
- Recent Performance: Emerging as a key player in the spin department, Kuldeep's unique bowling style can be particularly effective against Australian batsmen who may struggle with wrist spin. His adaptability and variations make him a spinner to watch out for.
4. Washington Sundar
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-spin
- Recent Form: While he may not have extensive experience in Australia, Sundar's all-round capabilities and ability to bowl economically make him a valuable asset in the squad.
5. Jayant Yadav
- Bowling Style: Right-arm off-spin
- Recent Performance: Known for his control and ability to take wickets when needed, Jayant could play a crucial role if selected, especially considering the conditions that may favor spin bowling at times
Conclusion
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 approaches, several Indian spinners are set to play pivotal roles in the series against Australia.
Ravichandran Ashwin, the second-highest wicket-taker in BGT history with 114 wickets, is expected to lead the attack with his right-arm off-spin and tactical acumen. His ability to exploit conditions and outsmart batsmen makes him a formidable opponent.
Ravindra Jadeja, renowned for his left-arm orthodox spin and exceptional all-round capabilities, has also been effective in Australia, boasting an impressive average of 18.85 in the series.
Kuldeep Yadav, with his unique chinaman deliveries, adds variety and unpredictability to the spin department, potentially troubling Australian batsmen.
Washington Sundar brings his right-arm off-spin and all-round skills, providing depth to the squad. Lastly, Jayant Yadav offers reliable off-spin and control, making him a valuable option if called upon.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 promises to be an exciting chapter in the storied rivalry between India and Australia. For the first time since the 1991/92 series, the teams will compete in a five-match format, enhancing the stakes and intensity of the contest.
With India holding a recent edge, having won four consecutive series, they aim to continue their dominance on Australian soil. The series kicks off at the pace-friendly Optus Stadium in Perth, where spinners like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will play crucial roles. Fans eagerly await thrilling performances as both teams vie for supremacy in this prestigious tournament.
Also Read| Most Wickets for India in Border-Gavaskar Trophy Till 2024
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