Former India captain Sourav Ganguly had the perfect response to Michael Vaughan’s bold prediction about Australia winning the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1. Even before the second Test in Perth concluded, Ganguly cheekily reminded Vaughan about his overconfidence in Australia’s chances, making the exchange a highlight of the series so far.
Ganguly’s Witty Jibe Lands Early
Vaughan, who had predicted a dominant Australian performance in the series, received a sharp reminder from Ganguly after the second day of the Perth Test. India had been bowled out for just 150 in their first innings but retaliated by dismissing Australia for a mere 104, gaining a crucial 46-run lead.
Recalling the text from Ganguly on Clube Prairie Fire, Vaughan said, “On Saturday, just after India bowled Australia out, I got a message from Sourav. It read, ‘Hi Michael… My prediction is going well.’” The comment, made with India’s resurgence in mind, left Vaughan and others in stitches.
India went on to dominate the match, declaring their second innings at 487/6 and setting Australia an imposing target of 534 runs. Australia faltered, managing only 238, and India clinched the game by a massive 295-run margin.
Vaughan’s Take on Jaiswal and Australia’s Tactics
Despite India’s emphatic victory, Vaughan held firm on his prediction of a 3-1 series win for Australia, claiming the loss was just the “one” in his forecast. He also took the opportunity to praise young Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who showcased his immense potential with a spectacular second-innings knock.
After being dismissed for a duck in the first innings, Jaiswal came back stronger, scoring 161 in the second. His partnership of 201 runs with KL Rahul set a record for the highest opening stand by an Indian pair in Australia.
Vaughan lauded Jaiswal, calling him “the best young player in the world,” but expressed surprise at Australia’s lack of aggression against the 22-year-old. “In the past, young players would be tested with bouncers and close-in fielders. Brett Lee, Jason Gillespie, even Steve Waugh would have bowled a few short balls. I was staggered by how tame Australia’s approach was,” he remarked.
Ganguly’s Prediction Holds Weight
Adding to his playful jibe, Ganguly predicted the series could be level at 1-1 heading into the third Test in Brisbane. With India’s dominant display in the opener, his comments now carry significant weight.
The Road Ahead
India’s comprehensive win in Perth has set the tone for an intense Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the third Test, the exchange between Ganguly and Vaughan adds an extra layer of intrigue, with the former Indian skipper’s confidence in his team standing vindicated—for now.
