AUS vs IND 2024-25: Michael Vaughan picks BGT Combined XI, excludes Nitish Kumar Reddy

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 was single-handedly won by Australia, as the Indians had to face a shambolic 3-1 loss at the hands of the hosts, who reclaimed the trophy after ten long years. There were some amazing performances put on board by individuals from both the teams, however, team efforts led the Pat Cummins-led side to an emphatic triumph at the fifth and final Test at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney.

Meanwhile, former England cricketer Michael Vaughan picked his best Playing XI from the series after an entertaining tour came to an end. Travis Head, the highest run-getter in the series with 448 runs at an average of 56.00 made it to No. 5 in the combination. On the other hand, Jasprit Bumrah, who took an unbelievable 32 wickets in the series deservedly found a spot in the English international's Playing XI. Ravindra Jadeja was the only all-rounder in the list, while Nitish Kumar Reddy, who scored a hundred at the MCG, missed out on getting included.

Michael Vaughan Combined Australia and India XI (via Fox Cricket):

Sam Konstas, Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Jasprit Bumrah, Scott Boland

Also Check: AUS vs IND 2024-25 | All Stats

Australia qualify to defend WTC Title

The win at the SCG during the New Year's Test meant much more for Australia than just a series win. The win upped their points' percentage (PCT) on the World Test Championship table for the 2023-25 cycle, and became the second qualifiers alongside South Africa. Both teams will now cross swords at the WTC Final 2025, as the final showdown is to scheduled to be held at the Lord's in London, the most sacred venue in the history of cricket. However, the Aussies still have a couple of games against Sri Lanka, and have an excellent opportunity to end the cycle as table toppers.