Former Australia batter Mike Hussey believes Gautam Gambhir's hunger to win will ignite the Indian team with a positive and competitive spirit ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024. Speaking to The Times of India, Hussey said he expects India to face a tough fight against the Australian side, despite recent setbacks.

Several former Australian players have openly criticized Gambhir, particularly after his comments on Ricky Ponting’s views about Virat Kohli. However, Hussey maintains a different perspective, backing Gambhir’s competitive nature to drive the Indian team forward, especially in challenging Australian conditions.

“He (Gambhir) was a great competitor and he would fight for victory. I have no doubt, watching him in the IPL and other teams he’s been involved with, he loves to win, and I’m not expecting anything different from this Indian team," said Hussey.

"They’ve got some great fighters and some great competitors. So, I’m sure his personality will come through with the way he coaches. And I think you need to have something like that in Australian conditions. It’s not easy coming to Australia and competing with a strong Australian team," he added.

Hussey also acknowledged the contribution of former India coach Ravi Shastri, who brought a competitive edge to the team, and expressed confidence that Gambhir, who has enjoyed past success in Australia, will bring similar energy.

“And I think Ravi Shastri certainly brought that competitive hard edge to the team when he was coaching the team as well, and real positiveness as well. Gambhir is someone who’s done well in Australia in the past as well. He will have fond memories of coming here. He’s a real fighter and a real competitor. And I’m sure he’ll bring that in this Indian team as well," he added.