Vaibhav Tripathi
A sensational hundred by Glenn Maxwell, coupled with subpar bowling from India, led to a thrilling last-ball victory for Australia in the third T20I at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. The teams clash again on Friday at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, where India aim to secure a 3-1 victory and clinch the series.
Vice-captain Ruturaj Gaikwad smashed an unbeaten hundred to push his team to a substantial total in the third game, but unfortunately, India couldn’t defend the total. Gaikwad has been in exceptional form, amassing 181 runs at an impressive average of 90.50.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav has also maintained consistency with the bat, accumulating 138 runs at an average of 46 and an impressive strike rate of 170.37. Ishan Kishan has showcased his prowess with two half-centuries in the series, and Rinku Singh exhibited aggressive finishing capabilities in the second T20I, providing India with depth. The team will once again rely on Rinku to provide finishing touches. Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer will be available for selection for the game.
However, the bowling has remained a concern for the Indian team throughout the series, except for Ravi Bishnoi, who has been exceptional with six wickets from three matches at an average of 19.67. India’s death bowling also was exposed in the last game.
Apart from Bishnoi, Axar Patel has made a notable impact. While the upcoming match poses similar difficulties, if there is support for the spinners, Bishnoi and Axar might prove crucial. Deepak Chahar’s inclusion in India’s squad for the last two matches brings a valuable addition. Chahar’s recent performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023 for Rajasthan, where he took 10 wickets in 5 games with an economy of 7.38, adds balance to the fast-bowling unit. Additionally, he contributed with the bat, scoring 67 runs off 39 balls at a striking rate of 171.79. Chahar’s presence enhances the team’s options in the upcoming matches.
Australia’s lineup for the fourth T20I will undergo significant changes, with key players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa, and Josh Inglis unavailable for selection as they have returned home. This opens the door for players Ben McDermott, Josh Philippe and Chris Green to showcase their talent at the top level. Travis Head, currently in superb form, will lead the batting unit, supported by experienced players like Matthew Wade, Tim David, and Kane Richardson. Despite the infusion of experience, Australia appears weaker compared to the previous match.
The team faces a notable challenge in tackling spin, a weakness observed in both the top and middle order. While the bowling attack remains largely unchanged, Tanveer Sangha will need to elevate his performance in the absence of Zampa. The role of Chris Green, known for his effectiveness in the powerplay, adds a new dimension to the bowling unit that has been tested throughout the series.
Time and Venue Details
India vs Australia. Fourth T20I. 7:00 PM. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur.
Expected Conditions
There is no forecast of rain. However, there is a possibility of dew. The ground is relatively big. The pitch is expected to be the slower side.
Predicted Playing XI:
India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Deepak Chahar.
Australia:
Australia: Travis Head, Josh Philippe, Ben McDermott, Aaron Hardie, Matthew Short, Tim David, Matthew Wade (c & wk), Chris Green, Nathan Ellis, Jason Behrendorff, Tanveer Sangha
Match-up
Gaikwad vs Behrendorff: Gaikwad was the standout performer with the bat for India in the last game. On the other hand, Behrendorff starred with the ball for Australia, recording figures of 1-12 from his 4 overs. The left-arm pacer has looked in good rhythm and will aim to unsettle the in-form Gaikwad with the new ball.
Match Speak
“You have to be confident in a series like this, especially against a strong team like India in their home conditions. The way we fought back in the last game, it was impressive to chase down 222 and we got a lot of confidence in that game and we will take that going forward.”
Behrendorff, Australia pacer