In a thrilling contest between bat and ball, India secured victory in the five-match series in Raipur, setting the stage for an intense fifth and final T20I showdown in Bengaluru. Despite the quick turnaround, players like Travis Head, Tanveer Sangha, and Matthew Short are geared up for the challenge, being the sole members present in India since the ODI World Cup’s commencement.
Australia’s Struggle and Hope for Resurgence
Amidst experimentation with 19 players, Australia’s attempts to refresh their lineup fell short in Raipur, especially against the spin mastery of Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel. The Bengaluru pitch, historically less supportive of spin, might offer some relief as Australia aims to conclude their tour on a high note.
India’s Resilience and Fast Bowling Boost
India, while not consistently clinical, witnessed individual players stepping up under pressure, exemplified by Jitesh Sharma’s impactful debut in Raipur. The return of Deepak Chahar after injury adds depth to India’s fast-bowling unit, anticipating a more well-rounded performance.
Form Guide
India: WLWWW (last five completed T20Is, most recent first) Australia: LWLLW
Player Spotlight: Jaiswal and Hardie
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s explosive starts in the powerplay have been crucial for India, yet converting them into substantial scores remains a challenge. Aaron Hardie, despite a quiet T20I series, could find his stride in Bengaluru’s conditions, known for favoring batsmen with a penchant for big hits.
Expected Team Changes
With the series secured, India may opt for changes, potentially giving Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma playing time. Australia, limited by a reduced squad, might consider Kane Richardson or Nathan Ellis to reinforce their lineup.
India (probable):
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Shreyas Iyer/Tilak Varma
- Suryakumar Yadav (capt)
- Jitesh Sharma (wk)
- Rinku Singh
- Axar Patel/Washington Sundar
- Deepak Chahar
- Ravi Bishnoi
- Avesh Khan
- Mukesh Kumar
Australia (probable):
- Josh Phillippe
- Travis Head
- Ben McDermott
- Aaron Hardie
- Tim David
- Matthew Short
- Matthew Wade (capt, wk)
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Chris Green
- Jason Behrendorff
- Tanveer Sangha/Nathan Ellis/Kane Richardson
Pitch and Conditions: Run-fest Anticipated
The Chinnaswamy Stadium, known for high-scoring encounters, might witness another run-fest, given its short boundaries and placid surface. Despite cloudy overhead conditions, the absence of rain and temperatures ranging from 18 to 22 degrees Celsius bode well for an exciting match on Sunday.
Stats and Trivia
- Yashasvi Jaiswal’s series runs (117) have all come in the first powerplay at a strike rate of 174.62.
- Jason Behrendorff boasts the best economy rate (5.75) and has taken four wickets in three matches.
- Rinku Singh has been explosive in the death overs, scoring 49 runs off 20 balls in this series, striking at an impressive rate of 245.00.