Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting believes Aussie opener Usman Khawaja would outscore Indian Virat Kohli in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Ponting on Thursday also predicted the result of the forthcoming four-match Test series between India and Australia.

Speaking to cricket.com.au, Ponting said Australia would win the series 2-1 and Khawaja will be the leading run scorer and not Virat Kohli.

“He’s (Khawaja) on top of his game, his record in Australia is outstanding. As much of a threat that the Indian fast bowlers might pose, I think he’s got a game that can cope with it here in Australia. I’m going with him to be the leading run scorer and man of the series,” Ricky Ponting said.

The Indian cricket team have never won a Test series Down Under in 40 years. So far, India and Australia have played 11 Test series (44 Test matches) in Australia. Of the 44 games, India has won only five. Speaking about India’s poor record on the bouncy pitches of Australia, Ponting said, “We’re talking 40 years of history with India coming to Australia and not being able to win because of the fast, bouncy nature of our pitches so I’d love to see them that way.”

The new Perth stadium in Australia will host its maiden Test. Speaking about Perth’s wicket, Ponting said, “If it’s a wicket in Perth like I saw for the one-dayer against South Africa then I can’t see India making too many at all – that was a one-dayer and that (pitch) went all over the shop, with good pace and good bounce.”

He added, “With Adelaide being like it’s been the last couple of years, having a little bit more grass in the surface (will suit Australia). I’d like to see a little bit of grass left on them for the first two and then I think Australian can put the series to bed after two Tests.”

The 43-year-old also feels the extra life in the surfaces will give Khawaja the upper hand over Kohli.

“Kohli will play well I’m sure because he does everywhere he goes and had a great series against Australia last time. Just where they’re starting in Adelaide and Perth – if they leave something in them, Kohli is a bit more vulnerable in those conditions than Melbourne and Sydney,” Ponting added.

India will kick-start their four-Test match series against Australia on Thursday, December 6 in Adelaide.