SYDNEY: Cricket Australia (CA) accepted their mistake of not calling Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar to the post-series presentation ceremony of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Gavaskar's absence from the ceremony, despite being present at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), raised many questions on the Australian board. The trophy was handed over to winning captain Pat Cummins by former Australian skipper Allan Border.
While accepting the loophole in their decision, Cricket Australia, stated, "We accept that having both Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar on stage would have been more appropriate."
However, the Australian board also clarified that this decision was already taken days ago. "It was already decided that if India win the trophy, Gavaskar will present the trophy. If Australia do, then Border will do the honours," the cricket board said.
While speaking to an Indian media outlet, Gavaskar also expressed his disappointment at not being called to the stage. "It would have been great to be part of the presentation ceremony. I was at the ground, and it doesn't matter if Australia won; I would have loved to hand over the trophy alongside my friend Allan Border," said Gavaskar.
Fifth Test
India’s bowling unit struggled in the absence of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who walked off the field due to a back spasm.
With 91 runs required after lunch on day 3, Beau Webster and Travis Head’s steady partnership capitalized on India’s tiring bowlers.
Australia claimed a six-wicket victory over the visitors on Sunday.
Following their series win against India by 3-1, Australia secured their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final for the second consecutive time.
They will now face South Africa in their title defence at the Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11-15. For South Africa, it will be their first appearance on the big stage of Test cricket.
Sohail Imran Sohail Imran is a senior reporter for Geo News.- Sunil Gavaskar
