The 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) has set a monumental record in Australian cricket history, attracting 837,879 spectators across five matches. This achievement marks the series as the fourth-most attended in Australia, surpassed only by the Ashes series in 1936-37, 2017-18, and 1946-47.
The significant turnout highlights the growing popularity of the BGT, making it a marquee event alongside the Ashes. The Melbourne Test alone recorded an impressive total attendance of 373,691, while Perth and Adelaide set daily attendance records with 32,368 and 51,642 spectators, respectively. Brisbane’s second-day attendance of 34,227 was also the highest for any Test against India.
Ricky Ponting on BGT’s Popularity
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting hailed the series’ unprecedented crowd numbers, calling them “unheard of” in Australia. Speaking to The ICC Review, Ponting noted the 837,000+ spectators as a testament to the BGT’s rising prominence. He, however, suggested a fairer comparison between the BGT and the Ashes would emerge when England tours Australia later this year.
Ponting further remarked that the attendance could have been even higher had all matches lasted five days. Tests in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney were completed in four, three, and three days, respectively, potentially limiting spectator numbers. Despite this, Ponting highlighted the series as a reflection of fans’ immense interest in the BGT.
Australia’s Victory and World Test Championship Qualification
Australia reclaimed the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade with a 3-1 series victory. Although the hosts lost the opening Test in Perth, they staged a remarkable comeback with wins in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney.
The victory not only secured the prestigious BGT but also guaranteed Australia’s spot in the 2025 ICC World Test Championship final. This achievement came at India’s expense, as the loss eliminated them from contention. Australia will face South Africa in the tournament’s summit clash, setting the stage for another high-stakes encounter.
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