IND vs AUS, 2nd T20I | 5 Player Battles To Watch Out For

image-lpdpdp3gIndia won the first T20I by two wickets

The cricketing world is set to witness another high-voltage clash between India and Australia in the second T20I of their five-match series, scheduled for Sunday, November 26, at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The match, beginning at 7:00 PM IST, comes on the heels of India's dramatic win in the series opener, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying encounter.

IND vs AUS 2nd T20I: Player battles to watch out for

The first match of the series was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle. India, under Suryakumar Yadav's captaincy, opted to field as Australia, led by Josh Inglis' scintillating 50-ball 110, amassed a massive 208 for 3. Inglis' innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting and smart cricket, as he took the Indian bowlers to task.

However, India's response was equally impressive. Despite losing early wickets and finding themselves at 22 for 2, the team showcased its depth and character. Ishan Kishan's explosive 58 off 39 balls laid the foundation for the chase, while Suryakumar Yadav's 42-ball 80 was a masterclass in chasing big targets. The icing on the cake was Rinku Singh's crucial 14-ball 22*, guiding India to a nail-biting victory in the final over.

As the teams gear up for the second game, several player matchups are anticipated to be crucial in shaping the outcome of the game. Here’s a look at the top 5 IND vs AUS Player Battlers.

Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Jason Behrendorff

image-lpdpqu8tRuturaj Gaikwad (Twitter)

Gaikwad's face-off with Behrendorff is set to be a critical opening battle. After an unfortunate run-out in the first T20I, Gaikwad, known for his elegant stroke play and timing, will be under pressure. His technique against the left-arm pace of Behrendorff, particularly against inswinging deliveries, will be tested. Gaikwad, having scored a mere run from three deliveries in T20Is without giving away his wicket, will be looking to cement his place at the top of the order. On the other hand, Behrendorff, armed with the ability to swing the ball into the right-hander, poses a significant threat. His first spell, targetting Gaikwad's weakness, could potentially give Australia an early breakthrough.

Steve Smith vs Arshdeep Singh

image-lpdprefgSteve Smith (Twitter)

The tactical matchup between Steve Smith and Arshdeep Singh will be one of the key battles. Promoted to open in the first T20I, Smith has the challenge of negotiating the new ball against Arshdeep's left-arm pace. Having managed six runs from nine deliveries against Arshdeep without being dismissed, Smith, known for his unorthodox yet effective batting style, will aim to build a solid foundation for Australia. Arshdeep, on the other hand, has shown remarkable composure for a young bowler. His ability to move the ball both ways and bowl accurate yorkers in the powerplay makes him a potent threat.


Ishan Kishan vs Tanveer Sangha

image-lpdprvwrIshan Kishan (Twitter)

Ishan Kishan's aggressive batting approach was on full display in the first T20I, where he took on Tanveer Sangha, hammering the leg-spinner for 30 runs off just 11 balls. His assault included three sixes and two fours, showcasing his skills against spin. However, Sangha's comeback to dismiss Kishan adds an interesting twist to their ongoing battle. Sangha, likely to be seeking redemption, will need to outthink Kishan with better flight and turn whereas the southpaw will look to exploit any lack of control from Sangha. Their clash promises a game of cat and mouse, with each looking to dominate the other.

Josh Inglis vs Ravi Bishnoi

image-lpdps7syJosh Inglis (Twitter)

Josh Inglis' domination of Ravi Bishnoi in the first T20I was a spectacle. Bludgeoning the leg-spinner for 49 runs in just 15 balls, Inglis' strike rate of 326.7 against Bishnoi was a testament to his explosive batting. He will be eager to replicate this performance, capitalizing on any scoring opportunities that Bishnoi presents. Bishnoi, however, will be looking to make amends. He will need to bowl with more guile and control, potentially using variations in pace and length to challenge Inglis. The pressure is on Bishnoi to contain Inglis, a task that will require tactical awareness and mental strength.

Suryakumar Yadav vs Sean Abbott

image-lpdpskv6Suryakumar Yadav (Twitter)

Suryakumar Yadav's blistering attack against Sean Abbott set the stage for India's chase in the first T20I. Scoring 19 runs off just 8 deliveries, Yadav's fearless approach against Abbott was critical in India's successful chase. His ability to find gaps and score off good deliveries makes him a formidable opponent. Abbott, known for his variations and death bowling skills, will have to come up with a more effective plan against Yadav. Slower bouncers and yorkers might be key to restricting Yadav's scoring. This matchup is not just a contest of skills but also a psychological battle, with both players looking to leave their mark.