3 players earned the Player of the Series (POTS) award in losing Border-Gavaskar Trophy campaigns. Despite their teams’ defeats, each player showcased exceptional individual performances—one with outstanding wickets, another with brilliant batting, and the third leading his team’s attack, all leaving a lasting impact on the series.
3. Pat Cummins’ Dominance in 2020/21
In the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Pat Cummins showcased individual brilliance that stood out even in a fiercely competitive series. Claiming 21 wickets, his exceptional bowling earned him the Player of the Series (POTS) award. Cummins’ relentless pace, ability to swing the ball both ways, and tactical precision made him the spearhead of Australia’s attack. His knack for exploiting batters’ weaknesses was pivotal in securing breakthroughs during critical moments. Beyond his bowling, Cummins’ leadership on the field further highlighted his significance to the team, solidifying his place as a standout performer in an intense series.
2. Sachin Tendulkar’s Heroics in 1999/20
In the 1999/2000 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as the ‘God of Cricket’, shone despite India’s defeat. His 278 runs in a challenging series highlighted his resilience and technique, earning him the Player of the Series (POTS) award. Tendulkar’s batting stood as a beacon of hope in a series where India struggled to match Australia’s dominance.
His ability to thrive under pressure, facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, demonstrated his exceptional skill and mental toughness. With elegant stroke play, astute innings management, and unwavering focus, Tendulkar became a constant threat to the opposition. Even in defeat, his performance underscored his ability to excel despite setbacks.
1. Jasprit Bumrah’s Stellar Series in 2024/25
During what was a challenging tour for India, Jasprit Bumrah emerged as a beacon of hope. Despite India’s loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade, Bumrah’s performance was outstanding. With the series ending 3-1 in Australia’s favor, including a draw at the Gabba, Bumrah’s impact was immense. He claimed 32 wickets in just 9 innings, matching Harbhajan Singh’s record for the most wickets in a single Border-Gavaskar series.
Bumrah’s bowling was a mix of strategy and devastation, frequently turning the tide in India’s favor during key moments. His figures reflected not just his wicket-taking ability, but also his endurance, skill, and adaptability to varied Australian conditions. With his pace, accuracy, and variations, Bumrah proved to be a formidable force, earning him the Player of the Series (POTS) award despite India’s defeat. This recognition underscored his individual brilliance amidst the collective disappointment of the team’s outcome.