"Two best Test teams in the world going head-to-head over five Tests" - Steve Smith on Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

Star Australian batter Steve Smith is eagerly awaiting the challenge against India this summer. The right-handed batter believes the two sides are the best in the world in the format.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be on the line in November as India and Australia square off over five Tests. With Australia not winning a Test series against India for a decade and not holding the Border-Gavaskar Trophy since 2014-15, they will be desperate to regain it this summer.

Speaking to reporters after signing a three-year deal with the Sydney Sixers, Smith admitted that India are a class side and expects a mouthwatering contest over the summer. He said, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo:

"I don't have any plans. I'm just enjoying playing at the moment, I'm pretty relaxed and looking forward to this summer. India's going to be a great challenge, they are a very good side, think we are probably the two best Test teams in the world going head-to-head over five Tests. I'm excited by that."

The former Aussie captain has a fantastic record against India in red-ball cricket, accumulating 2,042 runs in 19 Tests at an average 65.87. The 35-year-old has slammed nine centuries and five fifties against the Indians, with a best of 192.

"I'm happy to bat anywhere" - Steve Smith

Steve Smith. (Image credit: Getty)

With fellow players like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne urging Smith to bat at No. 4 instead of opening the innings, the New South Welshman said he is happy to slot in anywhere the team needs. He said (as per the aforementioned source):

"The conversations I've had so far is that we'll go to England…I'm there for the one-dayers then make a decision after that. There's conversations happening in the background. Guys like Usman [Khawaja] has said he likes me down at No. 4, think Marnus is of a similar thought pattern. We'll wait and see. I'm happy to bat anywhere."

Australia's three-match T20 tour of Scotland kicks off on September 4. They will then play three T20Is and five ODIs against England, beginning on September 11.