Mitchell Marsh fuels excitement for Border-Gavaskar Trophy with talk of 'friendly rivalry': 'There's no hatred but...'

In the last four series of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India has continuously come out on top, securing two series wins at home and two away. Led by Virat Kohli, India made history by becoming the first Asian team to defeat Australia on their home turf in the 2018-19 series. Ajinkya Rahane then led the team to another memorable victory in 2020-21. However, Australia had their moment of glory by winning the World Test Championship final last year, adding another prestigious trophy to their collection.

It will be the first time since 1991-92 that the two teams take on each other in a five-match Test series in BGT 2024-25.

Marsh suggested that India and Australia's recent domination in international cricket has helped build a rivalry.

“I think it’s just the cricket that’s been played between the two teams. If you look at the history, the recent history, we’ve won stuff, they’ve won stuff. And I think that when it’s back and forth like that, it builds that rivalry within yourselves," Marsh told Star Sports.

However, Marsh asserted that the players of both teams share a good camaraderie off the field but when they entered the field they just look to get the better of each other which makes it a great rivalry.

"You know there’s great friendships in the Indian team with our team, so there’s no hatred. But it’s a great on field rivalry, both teams want to win. And Australia versus India, it’s another opportunity to grow the game of cricket. Not that cricket needs growing in India, but worldwide. People tune into these big series," he added.

The much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence with the first Test--a day match--at Perth Stadium from November 22 to November 26, setting the tone for the series. The second Test, scheduled for December 6 to 10 at Adelaide Oval, will feature the exciting day-night format under the stadium's lights.