Rain washes out first India-Australia T20I in Canberra

October 29, 2025

Canberra: Persistent rain had the final say at Manuka Oval on Wednesday, forcing the first T20I between India and Australia to be abandoned with the visitors cruising at 97 for 1 in 9.4 overs.

Strong Start by Indian Openers

Under overcast skies, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh won the toss and chose to bowl first. India’s openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill gave a solid start, adding 35 runs before Nathan Ellis dismissed Sharma.

Suryakumar Yadav then joined Gill and made an instant impact, opening with his trademark flick over deep backward square — his 150th six in T20 internationals.

Rain Interrupts Momentum

Play was first halted after five overs due to rain and later resumed as an 18-over-a-side contest. The Indian duo accelerated briskly, adding 62 runs off 35 balls, before another heavy spell of rain forced the match to be called off.

At the time of abandonment, Suryakumar was unbeaten on 39 and Gill on 37, guiding India to a commanding start despite the curtailed play.

Weather Dampens Series Opener

The washout follows weather interruptions that also affected the preceding ODI series, leaving fans frustrated as the Canberra leg ended without a result.

The teams will now head to Melbourne for the second T20I on Friday, though forecasts there also predict possible showers.

Nitish Kumar Reddy Sidelined

Meanwhile, the BCCI confirmed that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the first three T20Is due to fitness issues.

“Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out for the first three T20Is. The all-rounder, who was recovering from his left quadriceps injury sustained during the second ODI in Adelaide, complained of neck spasms that affected his recovery and mobility,” the board said.

The BCCI Medical Team continues to monitor his progress.