As the cricketing action shifts to the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, the Australian team gears up for the second Twenty20 International (T20I) against the formidable Indian side on Sunday, November 26, 2023. The highly anticipated match is set to commence at 7 PM IST, where the visiting Aussie contingent will be eager to even the series after their narrow loss in the first T20I.
The first T20I saw an almost dominant Australian team falter at the last hurdle as India’s Rinku Singh clawed back a victory on the final delivery of the match. Recovering from this dramatic finish, the Australian squad is expected to bring in strategic changes in hopes of squaring the series 1-1.
Leading the top order are openers Steve Smith and Matthew Short. Smith has brought his rich vein of form from the ODI World Cup into the T20I series. Substituting for regular opener David Warner, his brisk 52 off 41 balls was significant though it came in a losing cause. Smith’s continued form is vital for Australia’s success as they prepare for the upcoming contest.
Matthew Short’s performance in the first T20I left fans wanting more as he made a brief 13 runs off 11 balls. The upcoming game presents an opportunity for Short to bolster the team’s start and provide a platform for a formidable total.
The middle order features Josh Inglis, Tim David, Matthew Wade, and Aaron Hardie. Josh Inglis, coming straight off an ODI World Cup win, started the T20I series on a spectacular note, crafting a stunning 110 off 50 balls, propelling the Australian total to 208/3. Inglis’ topped the score chart and his form will likely be a deciding factor in the next encounter with India.
Tim David, whose chances to make an impact were slim in the first T20I, is known for his explosive batting prowess. The Australian side will rely on his ability to fire in the must-win contest on Sunday.
In a twist of fate, Matthew Wade, the wicketkeeper-batter, did not get a chance to showcase his talent with the bat in the previous game, leading to heightened expectations for his performance in the pending matchup, should his batting services be needed.
Similarly, all eyes are on Aaron Hardie, who awaits his opportunity to shine after spending little time in the middle during the first T20I.
The team’s all-rounder slot is filled by Marcus Stoinis, who endured a rough outing in the first T20I, giving away 36 runs in a mere three overs. The Australian camp would be expecting a bounce-back to deliver a more rounded performance that reflects his experience and skillset.
The bowling department, consisting of Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Jason Behrendorff, and Tanveer Sangha, has areas to sharpen. Both Sean Abbott and Nathan Ellis faced challenges restricting the Indian batsmen, leaking runs at an alarming rate. Abbott ended with figures of 1/43 in 3.5 overs, while Ellis gave away 44 runs across his four-over quota.
Meanwhile, Jason Behrendorff emerged with better figures, offering some resistance and snaring 1/25 in his four overs. His economical spell will be something the Aussies look to emulate as they strategize to curtail India’s batting line-up.
Tanveer Sangha, the leg-spinner, proved to be a mixed bag in the first T20I. Despite conceding 47 runs, he managed to claw two important wickets for his team. His performance has likely solidified his spot for the next game, even as the experienced Adam Zampa waits in the wings.
Australia’s Predicted Playing XI comprises Matthew Short, Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, Tim David, Matthew Wade (captain & wicketkeeper), Aaron Hardie, Marcus Stoinis, Sean Abbott, Nathan Ellis, Jason Behrendorff, and Tanveer Sangha. This line-up will be focusing on avenging their previous loss and delivering a performance worthy of leveling the series.
While Sunday’s game is a prime opportunity for Australia to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability, India, brimming with confidence from their last-ball victory, will not make it an easy task. Cricket enthusiasts are on the edge of their seats, waiting for what promises to be another exhilarating showdown between these two cricketing giants.