Harbhajan Singh Stresses Importance of Gabba Test for Border-Gavaskar Trophy Victory

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As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy stands poised at 1-1, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has emphasized the importance of India winning the upcoming third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane. Speaking to Star Sports, Harbhajan stated that a victory at Brisbane would significantly boost India's chances of clinching the series.

This includes two remaining matches in Melbourne and Sydney. "This series is the toughest because both teams have the calibre to bounce back," Harbhajan said. Reflecting on the first two Tests, he noted how unexpected results have shaped the series so far.

"What happened to Australia in Perth, they wouldn't have thought that, and also India wouldn't have thought what would happen at Adelaide after the magnificent victory in Perth."

India's dominance in the first Test at Perth, where they triumphed by 295 runs, was followed by a comprehensive defeat in the second Test at Adelaide. Australia, led by a stellar Travis Head century and a five-wicket haul from Pat Cummins, secured a 10-wicket win.

They dismantled India in just three days. Harbhajan highlighted how the 10-day gap between the first two matches disrupted India's momentum. "There was a very long gap between the two Tests. Sometimes such a gap spoils the rhythm, and that's what happened here," Harbhajan explained.

Despite the setback, he remains optimistic about India's prospects. Especially if they can replicate their heroics from their iconic 2021 Gabba win. That win ended Australia's 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue.

Harbhajan believes India's best chances lie in Melbourne and Sydney but insists on the importance of performing well in Brisbane. "If India play their best cricket at the Gabba and come out as winners, then they will definitely win one match out of Melbourne or Sydney," he remarked.

India's batting woes, including skipper Rohit Sharma's poor form in Adelaide, have been a concern. However, the team will aim to bounce back under Rohit's leadership to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which they have held since 2017.