Overview:
With a deep batting lineup and a strong mix of pace and spin, the visitors look determined to seize early control of the series.
After the rain marred the first T20I ended in a no-result, India and Australia shifted base to Melbourne for the second clash of the series. Both sides will be eager to finally kick off the contest and gain momentum.
The second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground carries an extra layer of anticipation after the disappointment of the washed-out opener in Canberra. Fans had waited eagerly for the five-match series to begin, only to see the first game halted within ten overs due to heavy rain. Now, with weather conditions expected to improve, excitement is back as both teams prepare for a full contest on one of the grandest stages in world cricket. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will look to set the tone early in the series, while Australia will aim to capitalise on home conditions. With both lineups boasting explosive batting and world-class bowling, the stage is set for fireworks under the Melbourne lights.
What is the Context of the IND vs AUS match?
The first T20I at Manuka Oval was cut short by relentless rain, with the match abandoned inside the first ten overs, resulting in a no result. This outcome leaves the five match series evenly poised at 0-0, effectively turning the Melbourne clash into the series opener in terms of momentum. India are still searching for their first win of the tour in the shorter format after losing the ODI series 2-1, while Australia will look to maintain their stronghold at home. The team selection of India in the first T20 was questioned but since no play took part it was swept under the carpet and both the teams are expected the field the same XI.
India – Probable Playing XI against Australia in 2nd T20I
1. Shubman Gill
India’s new T20 vice captain showed good touch in the rain-hit opener, remaining unbeaten on 37 off just 20 balls. Known for anchoring before shifting gears, Gill’s role will be vital in giving India a strong foundation. With 705 runs in 28 matches at a strike rate above 140, including a century and three fifties, he will look to convert his promising start into a big one in Melbourne.
2. Abhishek Sharma
The fearless left-hander gave glimpses of his attacking intent in the first T20I, smashing a brisk 19 before falling early. His ability to take on bowlers in the powerplay is India’s X factor at the top. With 849 runs in 24 matches at a strike rate nearing 200, along with two hundreds and five fifties, Abhishek remains key to India’s aggressive approach.
3. Suryakumar Yadav (C)
India’s skipper looked back to his destructive best in Canberra before rain cut short his innings. With his unique 360 degree hitting and ability to dominate any bowling attack, SKY remains India’s most dangerous batter. Across 90 T20Is, he has 2670 runs at a strike rate of over 160, including four hundreds and 21 fifties, and will aim to carry forward that momentum at the MCG.
4. Tilak Varma
A stabilizing presence in the middle order, Tilak Varma has been growing into his role with maturity beyond his years. Known for handling pressure situations, he has already delivered in crunch matches like the Asia Cup final. With 962 runs in 32 T20Is at a strike rate of 150, including two hundreds and four fifties, he adds much needed solidity to India’s batting lineup.
5. Sanju Samson (WK)
Samson’s explosive hitting and versatility make him a key asset for India. Though his role often shifts depending on the match situation, his ability to clear boundaries at will is undeniable. With 993 runs in 49 T20Is at a strike rate close to 150, alongside three centuries and three fifties, Samson is expected to play a decisive role if India needs acceleration in the middle overs.
6. Shivam Dube
Dube brings balance to the side with his dual skills. While his finishing ability adds power to the lower middle order, his medium pace offers India an extra bowling option. With 581 runs in 41 matches at a strike rate near 140 and 18 wickets, Dube’s utility factor will be crucial in Melbourne, especially if India faces a high scoring contest.
7. Axar Patel
Axar Patel continues to be one of India’s most reliable all rounders, capable of tying down batsmen in the middle overs and contributing valuable runs down the order. His sharp accuracy with the ball and finishing skills with the bat make him indispensable. In 78 T20Is, he has picked up 77 wickets and scored 592 runs at a strike rate of 140.
8. Kuldeep Yadav
India’s premier wrist spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, remains a constant wicket taking threat. His variations often trouble even the best hitters, and he has the knack of breaking partnerships in crucial moments. With 86 wickets in just 47 T20Is, Kuldeep is India’s strike weapon in the middle overs.
9. Varun Chakravarthy
The mystery spinner adds variety to India’s bowling attack with his deceptive pace and accuracy. Known for bowling tough overs against set batsmen, Varun provides India with a unique edge. In 24 T20Is, he has already claimed 40 wickets, showcasing his knack for breakthroughs.
10. Harshit Rana
Handed a chance ahead of Arshdeep Singh, the young quick offers India depth not just with the ball but also with his late order hitting. In just four T20 appearances, he has already bagged five wickets and shown promise with the bat. With the management backing him for the future, Rana will be keen to make the most of this opportunity.
11. Jasprit Bumrah
India’s pace spearhead looked sharp in the opening game before rain played spoilsport. His lethal yorkers, pace, and ability to bowl under pressure make him arguably the best T20 bowler in the world. With 96 wickets in 75 matches, Bumrah will be key to India’s hopes of striking early and controlling the death overs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Australia – Probable Playing XI against India in 2nd T20I
1. Mitchell Marsh (C)
Leading the side with both bat and strategy, Mitchell Marsh has become the heartbeat of Australia’s T20 setup. His clean ball striking and calmness under pressure make him the ideal middle-order anchor. In 76 T20Is, he has piled up 1996 runs, making him one of the most dependable performers.
2. Travis Head
Head’s fearless batting at the top continues to trouble opposition bowlers, especially India. His ability to maximise the powerplay with aggressive stroke play often sets the tone for Australia. He has 1163 runs from 44 T20Is at a strike rate of 150, including five fifties.
3. Josh Inglis
Inglis adds depth to Australia’s batting with his sharp shot making and versatility across positions. His ability to accelerate quickly has been a boost for the middle order. In 37 T20Is, he has scored 878 runs, registering 2 hundreds and 2 fifties.
4. Tim David
Known for his brutal power hitting, Tim David has made a reputation as one of the most dangerous finishers in world cricket. Comfortable against both pace and spin, he thrives in high pressure chases. In 63 T20Is, he has 1507 runs at a strike rate close to 170, with 8 fifties and a hundred.
5. Josh Philippe (WK)
Philippe, with his natural flair and attacking instincts, brings unpredictability to Australia’s batting order. While still finding his feet in international cricket, his Big Bash exploits highlight his potential. He has 150 runs in 12 T20Is so far.
6. Marcus Stoinis
The experienced all rounder gives Australia balance with his hard hitting middle order batting and handy seam bowling. Renowned for his ability to finish close games, Stoinis is a proven match winner. He has scored 1251 runs and picked up 46 wickets in 77 T20Is.
7. Mitchell Owen
A promising youngster, Owen has already shown glimpses of his ability to change games with both bat and ball. His strike rate above 160 underlines his hitting power in the lower order. In 10 T20Is, he has 149 runs and 2 wickets.
8. Xavier Bartlett
A rising pace option, Bartlett brings swing and control with the new ball. In 12 T20Is, he has taken 15 wickets and could strengthen Australia’s attack on the bouncy MCG track
9. Matthew Kuhnemann
Still in the early days of his T20I career, Kuhnemann offers variation as a left arm spinner. Though he has only played one T20I, he remains a potential weapon if conditions suit spin.
10. Josh Hazlewood
Hazlewood’s precision and bounce make him a world class operator in this format. Capable of troubling batters both with the new ball and at the death, he is a proven asset in home conditions. In 58 T20Is, he has taken 78 wickets.
11. Nathan Ellis
Ellis has quickly carved a name for himself as a dependable T20 bowler with clever variations. His ability to strike in crucial moments has been a big plus for Australia. In 28 T20Is, he has bagged 42 wickets.
Pitch Report & Weather Conditions
The Melbourne Cricket Ground offers one of the most balanced pitches in world cricket, with conditions that assist both bowlers and batsmen. Early on, seamers can extract movement thanks to the hard surface and consistent bounce, but as the innings progresses, stroke makers find value for their shots. Spinners generally play a limited role in T20s here, making accuracy more important than turn. The venue’s large boundaries, 73 meters square and 86 meters straight, demand powerful hitting and sharp running between the wickets. Average first innings scores range between 150 and 190, with teams batting first holding a slight edge. October evenings in Melbourne are typically cool, with a chance of dew in the second innings, which could tilt the balance toward chasing sides.
Match Prediction – Who Has the Upper Hand?
India’s intent in the rain hit first T20I was clear as they raced to 97 runs in just 9.4 overs before the heavens opened up. The fearless batting approach, led by Gill, Abhishek, and captain Suryakumar, showed that India are not intimidated by Australian conditions or their bowling attack. With a deep batting lineup and a strong mix of pace and spin, the visitors look determined to seize early control of the series. Australia, however, will bank on home advantage and the firepower of Marsh, Head, and Tim David to counter India’s aggression. Still, based on the momentum displayed in Canberra, India appear better placed to strike first in Melbourne and go 1-0 up in the five match series.
FAQs About IND vs AUS Playing 11
Q: Who are the key players in the IND vs AUS clash?
For India, Jasprit Bumrah’s new ball threat and Abhishek Sharma’s fearless batting at the top make them crucial to the team’s chances. For Australia, Tim David’s finishing ability and Matthew Kuhnemann’s spin on the large MCG outfield could prove decisive, especially with the massive boundaries coming into play.