Overview:
While batting first has often yielded better results, chasing teams can benefit if dew sets in during night matches.
The first T20I in Canberra was washed out due to rain, leaving both sides frustrated and the series still goalless. Now, the action shifts to Melbourne, where the iconic MCG is set to host the second game of the five-match series.
India will be eager to carry forward their fearless batting display from the rain-affected opener, where they smashed 97 in under ten overs. Suryakumar Yadav’s men will look to seize momentum early, while Australia, led by Mitchell Marsh, aim to capitalise on their home advantage and depth. With the MCG’s large dimensions and lively surface, both teams face a fresh challenge in adapting quickly and outsmarting each other in conditions known for testing skills and temperament.
India’s Squad for T20I Series against Australia
Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (wk), Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar
Australia’s Squad for T20I Series against India
Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott (games 1–3), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman (games 3–5), Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis (games 4–5), Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood (games 1–2), Glenn Maxwell (games 3–5), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe (wk), Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Tanveer Sangha
India’s Probable XI against Australia for the 2nd T20I
Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah
Australia’s Probable XI against India for the 2nd T20I
Mitchell Marsh (C), Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Tim David, Josh Philippe (WK), Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Owen, Xavier Bartlett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Ellis
Melbourne Cricket Ground – Key Details of the Stadium
The Melbourne Cricket Ground, popularly known as the MCG, is one of the world’s most iconic sporting arenas with a capacity of over 100,000. Established in 1853, it has hosted some of the greatest cricketing moments, including World Cup finals and the famous Boxing Day Tests. Its vast playing area, with square boundaries of around 73 meters and straight boundaries close to 86 meters, makes it a true test for both batsmen and bowlers. The MCG has also been a regular venue for high profile T20 internationals and Big Bash League fixtures. Known for its electric atmosphere, rich history, and challenging dimensions, the MCG is a ground where skill and strategy matter as much as power hitting.
What is the Pitch Like at the Melbourne Cricket Ground?
The pitch at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is known for providing a balanced contest between bat and ball. Early in the innings, fast bowlers can find movement and extra bounce off the hard surface, making the first few overs challenging for batsmen. However, once set, stroke makers enjoy the true bounce, which allows attractive stroke play across the vast outfield. Spinners generally have a limited role in T20s, though accuracy and variations can be effective. With average first innings scores hovering around 141–144, the venue rarely produces excessively high totals. The large boundaries at the MCG also make six-hitting more demanding, rewarding batsmen who rely on timing and placement.
Key Stats & Records at the MCG
The Melbourne Cricket Ground has hosted 19 T20 Internationals, offering a fair contest between bat and ball. Out of these, teams batting second have enjoyed more success with 11 wins, compared to 7 victories for sides batting first, while one game ended without a result. The highest team total at the venue is 186/5, scored by India against Zimbabwe, while the lowest is 74 by India against Australia. The average first innings score here hovers around 141–144, underlining its balanced nature. David Warner holds the highest individual score of 89, and Josh Hazlewood boasts the best bowling figures of 4/30.
IND vs AUS: Weather Forecast – Will Rain Play a Role?
Melbourne is set for a pleasant day with partly cloudy skies and mild conditions. Temperatures will start around 12°C in the early morning before rising to a comfortable 20°C by the afternoon. A light shower is possible in the morning, but clearer skies and sunny intervals are expected as the day progresses. Northeasterly winds will blow at 10–20 km/h, while humidity levels remain moderate, creating comfortable playing conditions. UV levels are forecast to be moderate during the afternoon, warranting sun protection for extended outdoor activity. By evening, the weather will turn cooler and calm, with temperatures dropping back toward 12°C.
IND vs AUS: Pitch Advantage for Which Side?
The MCG surface is renowned for its balance between bat and ball, offering assistance to pacers early on with bounce and seam movement. Batsmen, however, benefit once set, with the true bounce allowing stroke play across the field. Spinners usually find limited turn in T20s, but accuracy and smart variations can still be effective. In white ball cricket, first innings totals generally range from 150 to 190, though the large boundaries make six hitting harder compared to smaller Australian grounds. While batting first has often yielded better results, chasing teams can benefit if dew sets in during night matches.
FAQs – Pitch Report for Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia
Q1: What is the pitch report for the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)?
The MCG pitch offers a balanced contest between bat and ball. Seamers often get assistance early with bounce and movement, while batsmen benefit once set thanks to the true surface. In T20Is, average first innings scores are around 141–144, making it a ground where smart batting and disciplined bowling are equally rewarded.
Q2: What is India’s record at the MCG in T20Is?
India has a strong T20I record at the MCG, highlighted by their famous win against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Overall, the venue has been favorable for India in recent years, with memorable batting and bowling performances.