The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set to begin this month as India gears up to face Australia in a five-match Test series starting November 22. While fans eagerly await the showdown, the series could prove to be a turning point for Indian stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Both players, along with veterans R. Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja face mounting pressure following India’s recent loss to New Zealand.

History shows that this iconic Test series has marked the end of illustrious careers for several Indian legends. Will Rohit and Virat overcome the odds, or will the Border-Gavaskar Trophy add their names to the list of Indian greats who bowed out in this intense rivalry?

Anil Kumble: A shocking mid-series exit

Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, surprised everyone when he announced his retirement mid-series during the 2008 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Struggling with form and fitness, Kumble played his last Test in Delhi before stepping away from the game. His decision marked the end of an era for Indian spin bowling.

Sourav Ganguly: The prince's farewell

Sourav Ganguly, one of India’s most successful captains, had already declared that the 2008 Border-Gavaskar Trophy would be his last series. The iconic left-hander ended his illustrious career on a high note, playing his final Test in Nagpur, where his leadership and batting prowess were celebrated one last time.

Rahul Dravid: The wall’s final chapter

Rahul Dravid, known as The Wall of Indian cricket, struggled during the 2011-12 series in Australia. Scoring only 194 runs in 8 innings, Dravid found it difficult to replicate his previous performances. Following the disappointing series, he announced his retirement, marking the end of his stellar Test journey.

VVS Laxman: A surprise exit after a disappointing tour

VVS Laxman, renowned for his heroics against Australia, had a forgettable 2011-12 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, managing just 155 runs at an average of under 20. Despite his impressive record in earlier series, this performance prompted his retirement from Test cricket, leaving fans longing for one last magical inning.

Virender Sehwag: The explosive opener’s sudden exit

Virender Sehwag, one of India's most dynamic openers, faced an abrupt end to his Test career during the 2013 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After the first two matches, Sehwag was dropped from the team due to a lack of form. Despite his contributions to Indian cricket, he never made a comeback to the Test squad and eventually announced his retirement, leaving fans yearning for his aggressive batting style.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni: A sudden goodbye

In a surprising turn, MS Dhoni announced his Test retirement mid-series during the 2014-15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Leading India to great heights, Dhoni decided to step aside after losing the series, allowing Virat Kohli to take over the reins of Indian Test cricket.

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As India gear up for another Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting November 22, all eyes are on stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja. A dip in form could mean a potential end to their Test careers, as the series is known for its high stakes and intense pressure. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has witnessed the rise and fall of legends, making it a career-defining series. For many Indian cricketers, it has been a stage for both triumph and farewell, leaving an indelible mark on their journeys.