Pat Cummins sets the stage for a fierce and attritional Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Cummins emphasised the challenge and prestige of the event, which has consistently delivered fiercely contested cricket over the years.

"It’s probably been one of the most fiercely fought. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has always been very tight every series. Five Test-match series gets really attritional, it's a big one really.”

Speaking on the pressure of coming into this series having lost out the last two times at home, the skipper took a positive stance, saying the team is well prepared to take the challenge head-on this time out.

"There will always be pressure when you are playing at home. India are a very talented side. A lot of us have been part of the last 2-3 series. But we are not looking too far ahead. It would be great to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India is a great side but we are well prepared."

India have won the four last Border-Gavaskar Trophies with a 2-1 scoreline, including two historic triumphs Down Under in 2018/19 and 2020/21.

For the Australian team, reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is a significant goal, and Cummins highlighted the team’s determination.

"It's kind of one of the last things that we want to tick off for a lot of us. Almost every challenge that we've had in the last few years, we've stepped up and done well. India are right up there as one of the best teams in the world. So, excited."

Newcomer Nathan McSweeney has the entire cricketing fraternity excited for his debut, and Cummins had words of advice for the young batter, encouraging him to focus on his strengths ahead of opening the batting in the first Test at Perth.

"He should play his natural game. He shouldn't try to imitate David Warner. That's not his game. As long as he makes bowlers bowl again and again, that's his game."

More on McSweeney as he readies for the potential Bumrah barrage

Steven Smith’s form remains crucial for Australia’s success, and Cummins expressed his confidence in the right-hand batter’s readiness.

"I know there are conversations every summer whether he's found his hands or not. I can report that his hands have found their way to Perth, which is good. He looked really good in the ODIs (vs Pakistan). He seems really settled. He's hitting the balls like he does. He looks really content with where his game is at."

Steven Smith has always been a force to reckon with while playing against India, evident from his 2042 runs across 37 innings with nine hundreds to his name, and at an incredible average of 65.87.

Jasprit Bumrah leading the Indian side adds a unique angle to the series, wherein two fiery pacers lock horns and Cummins is curious to see how his counterpart fares in his leadership role for India.

"I don't think it really changes too much. It's one of those rare things. Looking to see how he goes about his work out there. But, as a fellow fast bowler, it's always good to see."

Cummins, who hasn’t played a Test since the tour to New Zealand back in March, is back fresh from a period of preparation and is confident in his fitness and form ahead of the all-important series.

"I feel great. Couldn't have asked for a better start. Hopefully it translates into a good summer. Been really lucky to have 4-5 months off to build up, get strong, and play some white-ball cricket. I feel strong, fit and fresh as I have for a long time," he added.