Rain stops play! India’s fiery start cut short as 1st T20I gets washed out

Canberra: The opening T20 International between India and Australia was abandoned due to rain after only 9.4 overs of play at the Manuka Oval on Wednesday. Despite a promising start by India’s top order, the weather had the final say in the much-anticipated series opener.

India had reached 97 for 1, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav leading from the front. The stand-in captain smashed 39 off 24 balls with three fours and two sixes. His deputy, Shubman Gill, was equally impressive, remaining unbeaten on 37 off 20 deliveries, studded with four boundaries and a six.

The duo added a brisk 62 runs off just 35 balls for the second wicket, taking control of the innings after the early dismissal of Abhishek Sharma, who made 19 off 10 balls. India were 43 for 1 in five overs when the first rain interruption halted play.

When play resumed, India continued to dominate, but heavy showers returned during the 10th over—again bowled by Ellis, forcing the players off the field for good. With conditions unplayable and further rain forecast, the umpires eventually called off the match.

The washout means both teams will head into the next game with the series still level at 0–0, hoping for clearer skies and uninterrupted play in the remaining fixtures.