Match Abandoned Due to Persistent Rain
The highly anticipated first Twenty20 International (T20I) between India and Australia at the Manuka Oval in Canberra was officially called off on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, due to persistent rain. The series opener, part of a five-match T20I series, saw limited play before the weather ultimately forced its abandonment, leaving fans disappointed.
Australia's captain, Mitch Marsh, won the toss and elected to bowl first under overcast skies. India's innings began with aggressive intent, with openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill providing a solid start. Sharma scored 19 runs off 14 balls before being dismissed by Nathan Ellis.
India's Strong Start Halted
Following Sharma's departure, captain Suryakumar Yadav joined Gill at the crease. The duo quickly accelerated the scoring, putting on an unbeaten 62-run partnership off just 35 balls. Yadav was particularly impressive, scoring 39 not out off 24 deliveries, while Gill remained unbeaten on 37 off 20 balls.
India had reached a commanding position of 97 for 1 in 9.4 overs when rain first halted play. After a brief resumption, during which the match was reduced to 18 overs per side, the heavens opened once again, leading to the final abandonment of the match. Umpires declared the match over an hour after the second stoppage, as conditions did not improve.
Series Context and Player Injuries
This washout marks a frustrating start to the T20I series, which follows a preceding three-match One Day International (ODI) series that Australia won 2-1. Both teams are using this series to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The Indian squad has also been affected by injuries, with all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out of the first three T20Is due to neck spasms, as he recovers from a quadriceps injury sustained during the ODI series. Additionally, batsman Shreyas Iyer suffered a lacerated spleen in a recent ODI.
Attention now shifts to the second T20I, scheduled to take place on Friday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where both sides will hope for better weather and a full contest.
5 Comments
Karamba
Absolutely gutted for the players and fans. India was on fire!
Matzomaster
Australia winning the toss and electing to bowl was a smart tactical move given the overcast conditions, but India's aggressive start turned the tables quickly. The abandonment leaves us wondering what could have been for both strategies.
Leonardo
It's tough when nature plays spoilsport, especially for a high-profile series opener. But it also shows the challenges of international sporting calendars and geographical weather patterns.
paracelsus
This is why T20s are losing their charm. Too many rain interruptions.
eliphas
India's strong batting display before the rain was really exciting and promising for the series. However, it's a shame we couldn't witness the full contest and a potential chase.