Published By: Sanchari Das

Patrick James Cummins in BGT: UNIQUE RECORDS That He Has Accumulated Over the Years

A closer look at how Pat Cummins rose to the occasion, rewriting records and redefining leadership in the epic India-Australia rivalry

On January 5, 2025, Pat Cummins led Australia clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) with a dominant 3-1 series win against India. The fifth Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground saw Australia chasing 162 runs in just 27 overs, defeating a Jasprit Bumrah-less Indian bowling attack by six wickets. Usman Khawaja top-scored with 41, while debutant Beau Webster finished the game unbeaten on 39. This win marked Australia’s first BGT victory in ten years, ending a streak of losses in two home and two away series since 2014-15. Now, let us delve into all the records Pat Cummins broke or created in BGT over the years.

Dominating the WTC as captain 

Cummins’s captaincy has set unprecedented records. With Australia’s win in the fifth Test, he equalled Joe Root’s record of 11 victories in a single WTC cycle. Root achieved this feat during the 2019-21 edition, but Cummins has three more matches to surpass it. Overall, he has won 20 out of 33 WTC matches, the most by any captain. His tactical brilliance and ability to lead in clutch moments have solidified his place among cricket’s elite leaders. He also became the first bowler to complete 200 wickets in WTC.

World Test Championship dominance 

Cummins’s contributions extend beyond the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He guided Australia to victory in the 2023 WTC final against India, making him one of only two captains to achieve this feat. With 11 wins in the ongoing WTC cycle, he’s ahead of contemporaries like Ben Stokes (17 wins in 29 matches) and Virat Kohli (14 wins in 22 matches). Cummins’ impact on Australia’s resurgence as a Test powerhouse cannot be overstated.

A stellar series performance

Cummins was instrumental in Australia’s success as a bowler and a batsman. He ended the series as the leading wicket-taker for Australia, claiming 25 scalps at an average of 21.36, including a five-wicket haul. His lower-order batting contributions, such as knocks of 49 and 41 during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, provided crucial support. Cummins’ tactical acumen and consistent ability to deliver under pressure showcased his prowess as a player and leader.

Setting records against Rohit Sharma

The rivalry between Pat Cummins and Indian skipper Rohit Sharma reached new heights during the series. Cummins dismissed Rohit six times in Test cricket, setting a unique record. He became the first captain to dismiss another captain, most often in Tests, surpassing Richie Benaud (vs. Ted Dexter) and Imran Khan (vs. Sunil Gavaskar), who managed the feat five times. This achievement further highlighted Cummins’ ability to dominate key opposition players in high-stakes situations.

Joining the elite 500-wicket club

Cummins’ brilliance wasn’t limited to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. During the Sydney Test, he joined the elite club of Australian bowlers with 500 international wickets. Cummins’ tally now stands alongside legends like Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Brett Lee. In Tests, he has 289 wickets in 66 matches, averaging 22.54. His ODI record includes 143 wickets at 28.78, while his T20I performances boast 66 wickets at an impressive strike rate of 19.0.

Player of the series honours

Cummins’ dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy dates back to the 2020-21 series. Despite Australia losing the series 2-1, Cummins was named Player of the Series for his 21 wickets at an average of 20.04. He remains the only Australian pacer to receive this honour in BGT history. His ability to perform in adverse situations underscores his status as one of the finest fast bowlers of his era.

A historic milestone and the road ahead

Cummins’ achievements in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy have solidified his legacy. Australia’s win in the 2024-25 series marked a turning point for the team, ending years of heartbreak and disappointment in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. With the WTC final against South Africa looming, Cummins can add another chapter to his illustrious career. His record-breaking leadership and on-field brilliance have redefined Australia’s Test cricket and set a benchmark for future captains.