The city of Visakhapatnam is once again buzzing with excitement as it prepares to host a high-octane clash between India and Australia to kick off the five-match T20 International (T20I) series this Thursday, November 23. The anticipation is high as fans recall the nail-biting encounter between these two cricket powerhouses almost five years ago at the same venue—a match that saw Australia narrowly chase down India’s score in the final moments, snatching victory with just three wickets remaining.
That dramatic day remains India’s sole T20I defeat at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, as it’s otherwise known locally. Since then, India has enjoyed successes on this ground, having bested both Sri Lanka and South Africa in 2016 and 2022 respectively. Out of the three T20Is played here, India boasts two victories and a single loss. Their last outing at this ground was against South Africa in June 2022, where India showcased their prowess with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan scoring impressive innings of 57 and 54 runs, respectively. Setting a commendable target of 179 runs was enough for the Men in Blue, who then skilfully defended it by bundling out the Proteas for 131 runs, achieving a 48-run triumph. Spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was the architect behind India’s bowling success that day, taking three wickets for a mere 20 runs and receiving the player of the match accolade. However, in an unexpected turn, Chahal finds himself excluded from the squad for the upcoming skirmish with Australia.
Indian batters and bowlers alike seem to relish the conditions offered by the Vizag pitch. Historically conducive to spin, it set the stage for a memorable display of India’s spinning capabilities in 2016 when they toppled Sri Lanka for a paltry 82 runs. The spin department, led by Ravi Ashwin’s outstanding 4/8 spell in his quota of overs, proved to be the deciding factor in that match.
Looking ahead to the looming series, India’s squad presents a blend of seasoned cricketers and emerging talents. Suryakumar Yadav will captain the side, bringing his explosive batting prowess to the forefront, supported by opening batsman Ruturaj Gaikwad. The promising Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma are poised to bring fresh energy, while Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel provide versatility and depth to the squad. The power-hitting capabilities of Shivam Dube, combined with the agility of wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan and Jitesh Sharma can turn any game.
On the bowling front, the Indian team boasts a mixture of raw pace and guile, with the likes of Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, and Mukesh Kumar expected to carry the mantle for the bowling department.
In terms of performance history at Visakhapatnam, the Indian team’s ledger stands as follows:
Played: 3
Won: 2
Lost: 1
This series promises to be an enthralling battle, as India looks to make the most of their mixed record at the venue and put forth a performance that will invigorate their fans and fortify their position in T20I cricket. The pitch, which has always played an interesting role, might once again tilt the balance towards the spinners and how both teams adapt will be critical to the series outcome.
As the Indian team gears up to face Australia, the absence of certain key players due to injuries and rotations doesn’t seem to have dampened the spirits. The selectors have put together a team that they believe is more than capable of tackling the challenges ahead. Cricket enthusiasts across the globe are eagerly awaiting the series that not only adds another chapter to the India-Australia storied rivalry but also showcases the newest talent stepping onto the international stage.