Melbourne, Australia – The highly anticipated T20 series between Australia and India has shifted to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for its second match, with the hosts looking to bounce back after a washout in Canberra. The match is scheduled to begin at 7:15 PM local time.
The first T20I in Canberra was abandoned due to persistent showers, leaving fans and players alike wanting more after India had reached 97/1 in 9.4 overs. Shubman Gill (37) and Suryakumar Yadav (39) were looking in excellent touch, hinting at a potentially high-scoring innings. Unfortunately, the weather had other plans, resulting in a no-result and both teams heading to Melbourne with the series locked at 0-0.
The weather forecast for Melbourne has been a major talking point. While initial reports suggested a high chance of rain, recent updates indicate a decreasing probability of showers as the evening progresses. Although there is a chance of rain, a complete washout is considered unlikely.
Both teams are viewing this series as vital preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. India, currently ranked number one in T20Is and the reigning T20 World Cup champions, will aim to fine-tune their squad and strategies. Australia, ranked second, will be eager to test their aggressive batting approach and combinations on home soil.
In terms of team composition, India is likely to stick with the same playing XI from the first T20I. This includes a strong batting lineup featuring Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson. The bowling attack is expected to be spin-heavy, with Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Axar Patel in the mix, alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Harshit Rana. Australia have included Matt Short in the playing XI for the second T20I.
Historically, India holds a superior record against Australia in T20Is, with 20 wins out of 34 matches played. However, Australia has been playing an attacking brand of cricket recently and will be keen to improve their record at home. At the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India has won two out of the four T20Is played against Australia.
Players to watch out for include India's Abhishek Sharma, who is the number one T20I batter, and Suryakumar Yadav, who is looking to regain his form. For Australia, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Tim David will be key. Josh Hazlewood will lead the Australian bowling attack.
The pitch at the MCG is known to offer a balanced surface, with some assistance for fast bowlers early on and conditions generally favoring batsmen as the game progresses. The large size of the ground also tends to help the bowling side.
As the two teams resume their rivalry in Melbourne, fans will be hoping for a full match of exciting T20 cricket, free from weather interruptions.
