Did India Secure the Series Win After Rain Disruption in Brisbane?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India clinched the T20I series against Australia 2-1.
- Abhishek Sharma became the second fastest Indian to reach 1000 T20I runs.
- The match was washed out due to heavy rain after a strong start.
- This victory marks India's fifth consecutive series win against Australia.
- Shubman Gill contributed significantly with his performance.
Brisbane, Nov 8 (NationPress) India swiftly reached 52 runs without loss in just 4.5 overs before rain intervened, leading to the washout of their fifth and final T20I against Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday. With relentless rain and lightning causing the game to be abandoned, India secured a 2-1 series victory in the five-match contest.
This result signifies India's fifth successive T20I series win against Australia, underscoring their supremacy in this fast-paced format. Opener Abhishek Sharma (23 not out) and Shubman Gill (29 not out) set a positive tone for India before inclement weather halted play, marking the second instance of a match without a result in the series.
Prior to the rain delay, left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma capitalized on early opportunities to remain unbeaten on 23, making him the second fastest Indian batsman to achieve 1000 T20I runs. Shubman Gill also showcased his skills with elegant boundaries, finishing at 29 not out.
After being sent in to bat, Abhishek had a shaky start, being dropped twice during the powerplay—first by Glenn Maxwell at long-off off the bowling of Ben Dwarshuis, followed by another drop on the boundary by Dwarshuis after Abhishek misplayed a pull against Nathan Ellis.
Despite the rocky beginning, Abhishek made the most of his chances, striking two exquisite boundaries and reaching the 1000-run mark in T20Is in just 28 innings since his debut in July 2024.
While Abhishek benefitted from good fortune, Gill appeared confident at the other end, hitting six boundaries to provide India with early momentum until rain interrupted the match. A severe weather alert displayed on the scoreboard prompted the evacuation of spectators in the front rows to safer areas.
The heavy downpour, as indicated by the weather radar, ultimately influenced the match's outcome. In the three matches that took place during the series, Australia claimed victory in Melbourne, while India made a strong comeback, winning in Hobart and Gold Coast.
Brief scores:
India 52 for no loss in 4.5 overs (Shubman Gill 29 not out, Abhishek Sharma 23 not out) against Australia