IND vs AUS 5th T20 Match Preview: Can India Secure the Series Win Despite Rain Threat?
The fifth T20I match between India and Australia is set to take place at the Gabba in Brisbane. India leads the series 2-1 after winning the last two matches, while Australia aims to avoid a series defeat at home. The game is crucial for both teams, especially as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup.
Series Overview
India’s cricket team, under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, seeks to secure a series win. After suffering a loss in the second T20I, they bounced back with impressive performances in the third and fourth matches. The team will aim to maintain momentum in this final encounter.
Previous Match Highlights
- India won the fourth T20I, showcasing better adaptability to the conditions at Carrara Oval.
- Key players included Shubman Gill and Axar Patel, who contributed to a competitive total over 160 runs.
- Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, and Washington Sundar played vital roles in dismissing Australia’s batting order.
Pitch Conditions at The Gabba
The Gabba is recognized for its excellent bounce, typically favorable for fast bowlers. However, T20 matches at this venue often turn into high-scoring events. Despite initial struggles on bouncier tracks, India will benefit from the more predictable bounce expected during this match.
Weather Forecast
The weather is a potential concern, with thunderstorms predicted later in the day. However, such conditions are typical for Queensland this time of year. Despite possible windiness affecting shot selection, the match is expected to proceed as scheduled at 7:15 PM local time.
Teams and Lineups
Here’s a look at the squads for both teams:
| Australia Squad | India Squad |
|---|---|
| Mitchell Marsh (c) | Shubman Gill |
| Travis Head | Abhishek Sharma |
| Josh Inglis (w) | Suryakumar Yadav (c) |
| Tim David | Tilak Varma |
| Marcus Stoinis | Sanju Samson (w) |
| Glenn Maxwell | Shivam Dube |
| Mahli Beardman | Axar Patel |
| Xavier Bartlett | Harshit Rana |
| Nathan Ellis | Kuldeep Yadav |
| Matthew Kuhnemann | Varun Chakaravarthy |
| Sean Abbott | Jasprit Bumrah |
| Matthew Short | Arshdeep Singh |
| Josh Philippe | Washington Sundar |
| Tanveer Sangha | Rinku Singh |
| Jitesh Sharma |
As the final match approaches, all eyes will be on the players to perform amidst potential weather challenges. Both teams are set to put forth their best efforts in a thrilling conclusion to the series.