#IndiaInAustralia: Everything you need to know about the first T20I
India and Australia are set to battle it out in the first T20I at the Brisbane Cricket Ground on Wednesday. The visitors come from a T20I series victory against West Indies and go into the tie as favorites. On the other hand, Australia have several issues plaguing them. They will be eager to give a better account of themselves. Here's more.
India have dominated proceedings in T20Is this year
India have been on a winning spree in this format. They have won each and every T20I series this year, which they have played. One would expect Indian to be extremely confident when they take to the field tomorrow. Kohli will be keen to emulate Dhoni's 2016 side that swept aside the Aussies 3-0. And starting the tour on a winning note is important.
Indian batting in focus with trio atop in stellar form
India's batting upfront will present a challenge for the Aussies. Rohit Sharma, in particular, has been in supreme form and is the fourth highest run-scorer this year, in T20Is. With Kohli and Dhawan, the Indian team boasts of a dream batting line-up atop. The middle order will need to come strong and there is a chance for players like DK and Pant to shine.
Aussies need a collective batting effort
Australian batting is their main concern and it is time that the explosive set of players find their teeth. Aaron Finch will be hoping that the likes of Chris Lynn and D'Arcy Short get going. Further, the focus will be on the likes of Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis to add some solidity in the middle. Aussies need a collective batting effort.
Both sides boast of quality bowlers
Both sides boast of quality bowlers who can change the momentum of the game. The likes of Andrew Tye and Billy Stanlake have a lot of experience and possess the qualities to unsettle a side. Spinner Adam Zampa will be required to chip in. For India, the likes of JB and Bhuvneshwar hold the key at the death. In-form spinner Kuldeep could be influential.
Numbers game: First T20I- Australia vs India
In 16 T20Is played between the two nations, India have managed to clinch 10 victories to Australia's 5. Kohli has amassed an impressive 423 runs in T20Is against Australia, which is the most by an individual against the Aussies. In 16 T20Is this year, Aussies have won 9 and lost 7. India have won 13 out of the 16 T20Is in 2018.
When and where to watch the match?
The match is scheduled for a 1:20 PM start IST. The match can be watched live on the Sony Ten Network. The match can also be streamed live on the Sony LIV app.
