The first T20I of the five-match series between India and Australia in Canberra was called off due to heavy rain, so the match ended with no result. The game, which had already been reduced to 18 overs per side because of an earlier delay, was finally abandoned before 10 p.m. after heavier showers returned. India had reached 97 for 1 in the 10th over when the rain stopped play. Captain Suryakumar Yadav looked in fine touch and played some elegant shots.

Suryakumar Back in Form

Before the rain, Suryakumar played a sparkling knock against the Australian bowlers. He smashed Nathan Ellis for two fours and a six in one over. Earlier, he got a lifeline when Josh Philippe dropped a tough catch while running back from mid-on.

This innings was a welcome return to form for the Indian captain, who had crossed 20 runs for only the second time in his last 15 T20I matches. His struggles after the IPL made this performance even more notable.

Marsh Wins Toss Again

Australian captain Mitchell Marsh continued his excellent record with the coin. He won the toss and, as usual, chose to bowl first. It was the 19th time he had opted to bowl after winning the toss in T20Is.

India’s Aggressive Start

India showed attacking intent right from the first ball. Abhishek Sharma, playing against Australia for the first time, charged at Josh Hazlewood’s opening delivery. He ended the first over by using his feet to drive Hazlewood through point for four.

However, his quick start ended soon. Abhishek fell for 12 after driving a catch straight to Tim David at mid-off, giving Nathan Ellis a wicket in his first over.

Shubman Gill, his opening partner, survived an lbw scare against Ellis when replays showed the ball clipping the top of the bails. He continued to score freely, including a strong slog-sweep for six off Matt Kuhnemann before rain stopped play again.

Suryakumar’s Duel with Hazlewood

The fifth over saw an entertaining battle between Suryakumar Yadav and Josh Hazlewood. The Australian pacer bowled a sharp bouncer first, followed by a delivery that nipped away to beat Suryakumar’s bat.

But the Indian skipper responded with confidence, flicking a short ball over deep square leg for six. Hazlewood, who is available only for the first two matches before focusing on Ashes preparation, tested Suryakumar throughout the over.

Team Selections and Updates

India kept the same spin trio—Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy—that played in the Asia Cup final. Jasprit Bumrah led the pace attack, supported by Harshit Rana.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy missed the first three matches due to quad and neck injuries.

Australia, meanwhile, were without key players Cameron Green (playing Shield cricket), Glenn Maxwell (joining from game three), and Adam Zampa (absent for personal reasons).