Rain Forces Abandonment of India-Australia 1st T20I in Canberra; India Reach 97/1 Before Washout

Canberra, Oct 2025 : Rain played spoilsport at the Manuka Oval on Wednesday, forcing the first T20 International between India and Australia to be abandoned after persistent showers twice interrupted play. India were in a commanding position at 97 for 1 in 9.4 overs when the match was called off.

Under grey skies in the Australian capital, home skipper Mitchell Marsh won the toss and opted to bowl first. India’s new opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill gave the visitors a bright start, adding 35 runs for the first wicket before Nathan Ellis dismissed Abhishek.

Coming in at No. 3, Suryakumar Yadav looked in sublime touch from the outset, beginning his innings with a trademark whip over deep backward square leg — a stroke that also brought up his 150th six in T20 internationals.

Rain first halted play after five overs, causing a 40-minute delay. When play resumed, the contest was shortened to 18 overs per side, giving batters the license to accelerate. Both Suryakumar and Gill did exactly that, putting on a fluent 62-run partnership off just 35 balls, finding boundaries with ease and displaying excellent timing.

However, just as India looked set for a big total, another spell of rain arrived, ending any hopes of resumption. At the time of the second interruption, Suryakumar was unbeaten on 39 off 22 balls, while Gill remained not out on 37 off 25, guiding India to 97/1 in 9.4 overs.

Despite the limited play, India’s top order looked in strong form, showing intent and composure on a tricky surface. The abandonment, though, meant both teams will head to Melbourne for the second T20I on Friday, hoping for clearer skies.

The series opener’s washout mirrored the weather disruptions that marred the preceding ODI series. “At least in Perth, we got a result. No such luck today,” quipped the broadcasters as disappointed fans left the ground.

Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the first three T20Is due to fitness concerns.

“Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was recovering from a left quadriceps injury sustained during the second ODI in Adelaide, complained of neck spasms that have affected his recovery and mobility. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress,” the board said in a statement.