Rain disrupts play – 12:05 (IST) Nov 08 India and Australia are set for a thrilling finale to their five-match T20I series at the Gabba on Saturday. What began as a familiar tale of Australian pace dominance — led by Josh Hazlewood’s early control — has gradually transformed into a story of Indian mastery. Through disciplined bowling and intelligent use of spin in Hobart and on the Gold Coast, India have flipped the script and taken firm command of the series.
For Australia, this final contest — played under the shadow of the upcoming Ashes and without several key players — represents a last chance to salvage pride. Though they can no longer win the series, the hosts will be desperate to avoid a third straight defeat and end with a 2-2 draw.
After a strong run of form since the last T20 World Cup, back-to-back losses have dented their confidence and rhythm. The turning point of the series has clearly been India’s spin trio of Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar.
Their collective brilliance on slow pitches has restricted Australia’s power hitters and set up commanding wins, including the 48-run triumph at the Carrara Oval. Australia’s approach — built on unrelenting aggression — has backfired on sluggish surfaces.
Their high-risk batting formula thrives on pace and bounce but has faltered against the variation and control of India’s spinners. The inability to adjust to spin has raised deeper questions about their readiness for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be played in spin-friendly conditions in India and Sri Lanka.
The Gabba’s traditionally fast wicket may not provide clear answers to those questions, but Australia urgently need a morale boost before turning their attention to red-ball cricket. In contrast, India’s bowling balance has been spot on. What began with pace has now evolved into a spin-driven formula that continues to deliver results.
Given their winning momentum, the visitors are unlikely to make changes and are expected to stick with a settled XI that has struck the right balance between control and aggression. India’s tactical flexibility stood out in the previous match, where they adapted superbly to a slow pitch. Shubman Gill anchored the innings with a composed 46 off 39 balls, guiding India to 121 for 2 before a brief collapse.
It was a much-needed knock after a lean run, even if his trademark fluency was missing. The opener, still searching for his first T20I fifty in 14 innings, will look to end the tour on a high. Captain Suryakumar Yadav has had a similar series — glimpses of brilliance without a big finish.
As India’s next assignment against South Africa looms, he’ll aim to lead by example. Tilak Varma, meanwhile, continues to find his feet, with recent scores of 0, 29, and 5 highlighting his inconsistent form.
With India’s spinners dictating terms and Australia desperate to restore pride, the stage is set for a fittingly intense finale at the Gabba — one that could define the tone for both teams heading into a crucial year of T20 cricket.