Canberra, October 29: A lively contest between India and Australia was cut short by relentless rain, as the opening T20I of the three-match series at the Manuka Oval ended in a washout.
After Australia’s skipper Mitchell Marsh opted to bowl first, India began brightly. Abhishek Sharma struck a few crisp boundaries before Nathan Ellis drew first blood. The drizzle then made its unwelcome appearance, forcing the first interruption of the day. When play resumed, the match was reduced to 18 overs per side, and India came out swinging.
Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill showcased their class — SKY unfurling his trademark flicks and Gill timing the ball sweetly — as India reached 97/1 in 9.4 overs before the rain returned for good. Ellis was the only wicket-taker, while Josh Hazlewood bowled with control but without luck.
With no further play possible, the game was officially called off at 4:36 pm IST, leaving both sides to share the spoils. The players could only exchange smiles and handshakes, hiding their frustration as the Canberra skies refused to clear.
The teams now head to Melbourne for the second T20I on Friday, October 31 (1:45 pm IST / 8:15 am GMT), where both sides will be desperate for a full game. Rain, however, is again forecast for match day — something neither captain will want to see after Canberra’s washout.
For India, the series offers a crucial chance to fine-tune their combinations ahead of the home season and the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026. The focus will remain on testing their explosive top order and emerging fast bowlers in Australian conditions.
Australia, meanwhile, will look to bounce back strongly with the ball and settle on a balanced lineup after their recent ODI commitments. The likes of Marsh, Tim David, and Adam Zampa will be key as they aim to regain rhythm before the multi-format home summer continues.
The third and final T20I is scheduled for November 3 in Sydney, where both sides will hope for a decider under clear skies and high energy crowds.
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