Sheffield Shield 2024-25: Mitchell Starc shows glimpses of class ahead of Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Australia and India are preparing in full swing for the Border-Gavaskar series 2024-25 as both sides will take on each other in five-Test series, with the first one set to be held in Perth from November 22. Ahead of the marquee contest, several stars from both the side are putting their best foot forward to prepare for the crucial series.

Star Australia pacer Mitchell Starc recently made headlines as he seemingly sent a warning to team India with an exceptional spell in the Sheffield Shield, in the clash between Victoria and New South Wales. Starc, representing NSW, showed a glimpse of his form as he took the wicket of opener Ashley Chandrasinghe on the just the second ball of the match.

The star pacer followed it up by dismissing Marcus Harris and Campbell Kellaway. Meanwhile, Victoria posted 272 runs on the board in the first innings before bundling out NSW for just 136. 

Meanwhile, Starc’s performance will be a cause of concern for team India, as he could prove lethal on the Australian pitches and his spells could well decide the fate of the series.

India currently struggling against New Zealand

Speaking of Australia’s opponents in the BGT 2024-25, the Indian team are currently atop the World Test Championship standings. The Rohit Sharma-led side has been in good form overall, having recently defeated Bangladesh in a two-game Test series at home.

However, those celebrations did not last too long as they hit a roadblock against New Zealand in the first Test of the ongoing three-game series. India lost the first Test of the series by a comprehensive margin at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru after being bundled out for just 46 runs in the first innings, the lowest score in the format in Asia.

New Zealand thoroughly dominated the game registered a historic win, defeating the side by eight wickets to win their first red-ball game in the nation after 36 years. With two Tests still left in the series, India will hope for improved performances in the upcoming games.