India’s tour of Australia 2025, 2nd T20I preview: Men in Blue eye early series lead at MCG
The action shifts to the Melbourne Cricket Ground as Shubman Gill will look to carry his form forward and guide the Men in Blue to their first win of the series.
30 October, 2025
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After a rain-marred opening clash at the Manuka Oval, India and Australia will look to make a fresh start as the T20I series moves to the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on October 31. The first encounter promised fireworks before rain washed away what could’ve been a high-scoring thriller.
India’s innings was off to a bright start, with Abhishek Sharma providing early intent before falling to Nathan Ellis. What followed was pure entertainment — skipper Suryakumar Yadav and his deputy Shubman Gill lighting up Canberra with their strokeplay.
While SKY played his trademark fearless brand of cricket, hammering 39* off 24 balls, it was our Gujarat Titans captain, Shubman Gill, who truly stood out. The 26-year-old showcased poise and power in equal measure, smashing 37* off just 20 deliveries at a blistering strike rate of 185. His elegant drives and effortless lofts drew applause from fans and pundits alike.
Rain interruptions cut short what could have been a monstrous total for India, leaving both sides eager to register an early lead in the five-match T20I series. With the MCG’s vast outfield and big-stage atmosphere, expect another showcase of high-quality cricket from two world-class teams.
Players to watch out for
Shubman Gill: India’s ODI and Test skipper continued his scintillating form in the opening T20I at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. Having produced another swashbuckling knock, Gill’s form and intent in Canberra reaffirmed his growing stature in world cricket. In just 29 T20Is, he has already amassed 742 runs at a strike rate nearing 143, including three fifties and a majestic unbeaten 126.
Jasprit Bumrah: India’s pace spearhead remains the biggest threat to Australia’s top order. Though he didn’t bowl in the first T20I, his record speaks volumes — 96 wickets in 76 matches at an economy of just 6.35.
Bumrah’s lethal yorkers and ability to deliver under pressure make him indispensable, especially on Australian turf, where early swing and pace can make all the difference.
Australia vs India head-to-head in T20Is
In 33 encounters so far, India lead the rivalry with 20 wins, while Australia have managed 11 victories. Two matches have ended without a result — including the recent washed-out in Canberra.
Australia’s T20I squad: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wicket-keeper), Matthew Kuhnemann, Ben McDermott, Mitchell Owen, Josh Philippe, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa
Where to watch India’s tour of Australia 2025 live in India
The 2nd T20I begins at 1:45 PM IST on October 31. Fans in India can catch the action live on Star Sports channels and stream it via JioHotstar.
