Is Rinku Singh Ready to Shine as Tilak Varma Takes a Break in the 5th T20I?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling fifth T20I, Rinku Singh steps in for Tilak Varma as Australia opts to bowl first. With the series at stake, both teams are determined to make their mark at The Gabba. Will India secure a 3-1 victory and uphold their unbeaten series record in Australia?
Key Takeaways
- Rinku Singh replaces Tilak Varma in the lineup.
- Australia opts to bowl first after winning the toss.
- India aims for a 3-1 series victory.
- Both teams showcase a blend of experience and young talent.
- Conditions vary from previous matches, affecting strategy.
Brisbane, Nov 8 (NationPress) Rinku Singh has been brought into the playing eleven, stepping in for a rested Tilak Varma, as Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first in the fifth and final T20I at The Gabba on Saturday.
With Australia trailing 2-1, they have a chance to equalize and finish on a high note. For India, this match presents the opportunity to secure a 3-1 victory and uphold their record of never losing a T20I series in Australia.
After winning the toss, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh confirmed that his team remains unchanged. “It’s a good surface, and it’s always a pleasure to play in this prestigious stadium. We have a chance to draw the series, and there’s a lot at stake. Both sides have showcased excellent cricket. The last pitch was a bit inconsistent. India bowled exceptionally well. Tonight's conditions are different,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the Indian players were in high spirits, even as captain Suryakumar Yadav faced another toss loss. With Tilak, who is celebrating his 23rd birthday today, rested, it opens the door for Rinku to participate in this series for the first time.
“As long as you’re winning games, losing the toss is acceptable. We want to go out and express ourselves. It’s essential to understand the team’s objective. All the batters acknowledged that this isn't a 200-run pitch. We checked all the boxes in the last match and aim to replicate that performance,” said the Indian captain.
“Winning bilateral series is always rewarding. However, it’s crucial to determine the right combination. Apart from the openers, this format demands flexibility among batting positions,” he added.
Playing XIs
India: Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Jasprit Bumrah.
Australia: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Matthew Short, Josh Inglis (wk), Tim David, Josh Philippe, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Dwarshuis, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, and Adam Zampa.
Point of View
I believe that the dynamic shift in the Indian lineup with Rinku Singh's entry offers a fresh perspective in this final T20I. With the series on the line, both teams must adapt and showcase their strengths, and it's essential for India to maintain their T20I supremacy in Australia.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Rinku Singh selected to play?
Rinku Singh was selected to play as a replacement for Tilak Varma, who was rested for the match.
What was the toss result?
Australia won the toss and decided to bowl first in the fifth T20I.
What is at stake in this match?
India aims to secure a 3-1 series victory, while Australia looks to level the series at 2-2.
Who is the captain of India in this match?
Suryakumar Yadav is the captain of the Indian team in this match.
Where is the match being held?
The match is being held at The Gabba in Brisbane.
