Sunil Gavaskar reacts to being OMITTED from Border-Gavaskar Trophy presentation after SCG Test

New Delhi: Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment after being excluded from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 presentation ceremony on Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The series, named after the cricketing legends Sunil Gavaskar and Allan Border, saw Australia reclaim the trophy after 10 years with a 3-1 series win against India. The omission of Gavaskar from the ceremony was met with criticism, as the iconic batsman felt the decision was disrespectful to his contributions to the series’ legacy.

After the fifth Test match, Sunil Gavaskar was not invited to the dais to present the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a gesture many found disrespectful. Instead, he stood on the edge of the boundary, clapping as Allan Border handed over the trophy to Pat Cummins. This omission stirred disappointment, especially considering the series is named after both Gavaskar and Border.

Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment at not being included in the presentation of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the final Test. He shared his sentiments with Code Sports, emphasizing the significance of the trophy and the rivalry between India and Australia, which the series celebrates. “I certainly would have loved to have been there for the presentation,” he said, underlining the importance of the occasion for both nations.

Sunil Gavaskar expressed his feelings about not being included in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy presentation. He acknowledged that Australia deserved to win and stated that it shouldn’t matter who presented the trophy. “I would have been happy to present it with my good friend Allan Border,” he shared, highlighting his willingness to celebrate the occasion despite his nationality.

Cricket Australia’s plan was for Sunil Gavaskar to present the Border-Gavaskar Trophy if India had won or retained it. However, since Australia clinched the series 3-1, Allan Border presented the trophy to Pat Cummins. This marks Australia’s first Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in a decade. The intense rivalry between India and Australia, dating back to 1996-1997, has grown immensely, with record-breaking crowds attending the series, including a record at the MCG. The last time Australia claimed the title was in the 2014-15 season.