The India tour of Australia 2025 begins, the 1st T20I match, which will be played at Manuka Oval, Canberra, Australia, on 29th October. This is set to be an exciting contest.
Australia vs India – 1st T20I
| Category | Details |
| Match No | 1st T20I |
| Series | India Tour Of Australia 2025 |
| Date | 29th October |
| Time | 09:00 AM IST |
| Venue | Manuka Oval, Canberra, Australia |
| Live Streaming | TV- Star Sport 3(Hindi), Star Sports 1(English) OTT- Prime Video |
High-Stakes Opener Kicks Off in Canberra
India and Australia ignite their five-match T20I series on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Manuka Oval. Consequently, fans worldwide brace for a fierce battle. Moreover, both teams arrive in top form. India remain unbeaten in their last five T20Is. Meanwhile, Australia won four of their last five matches at home. Therefore, expectations run sky-high for this opening clash.
Zampa’s Absence Opens Door for Sangha
Star leg-spinner Adam Zampa will miss the start due to personal reasons. Specifically, he awaits the birth of his second child with wife Harriet. As a result, New South Wales’ Tanveer Sangha earns a surprise call-up. Notably, Sangha impressed in the recent One-Day Cup, claiming ten wickets at 14.10. Additionally, he shined during Australia A’s tour of India. Thus, he steps in as a capable replacement.
Spin Battle Could Decide the Game
India’s spinners hold a clear edge on paper. Kuldeep Yadav has taken 17 wickets in his last seven games. Likewise, Varun Chakravarthy boasts 16 wickets at an economy of just 6.88. On the other hand, Australia will rely on Matthew Kuhnemann alongside Sangha. Hence, the middle overs could become a tactical duel. Furthermore, spin-friendly patches at Manuka Oval may aid Indian tweakers.
Batting Firepower on Full Display
India’s top order looks explosive. Abhishek Sharma averages over 50 with a strike rate above 200 recently. Similarly, Tilak Varma provides calm stability in the middle. For Australia, Mitchell Marsh leads with grit and flair. In fact, he has scored 343 runs in his last ten innings. Additionally, Tim David remains a finisher of rare quality. Therefore, both sides pack serious batting depth.
Pitch and Weather Add Intrigue
Manuka Oval typically favors batters early on. However, it can offer uneven bounce later. Historically, teams batting first win slightly more often here. Also, rain looms in the forecast. Consequently, a shortened game remains possible. Nevertheless, floodlights and a responsive surface promise entertainment regardless.
| Condition | Batting-friendly wicket |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 224 |
| Pace Bowling | good pace and bounce early on |
| Spin Bowling | A little advantage later |
| Toss Prediction | Batting First |
| Weather Forecast | Hot with partly cloudy(28-30 C) |
| Rain Possibility | 30% |
Head-to-Head Favors India
India dominate recent T20I contests. They have won four of the last five meetings. Overall, they lead the all-time series 20–11. In contrast, Australia seek to reverse this trend on home soil. Still, India’s current momentum gives them a psychological edge. Thus, Australia must start strong to shift the narrative.
| Total Matches | 32 |
| Australia WIN | 11 |
| India WIN | 20 |
| No Result | 1 |
| Tie | 0 |
Squad Updates Shape Team Balance
Australia rotate bowlers ahead of the Ashes. Josh Hazlewood features only in the first two games. Sean Abbott exits after game three due to injury protocols. Meanwhile, 20-year-old Mahli Beardman joins later—fresh from U19 World Cup glory. India, however, field a near-full-strength XI. Captain Suryakumar Yadav leads a balanced, versatile unit.
Prediction Leans Toward India
Experts give India a slight advantage. Their batting fluency and spin control stand out. Even so, Australia’s home energy cannot be ignored. If Marsh and David fire, the hosts can level the odds. Ultimately, small moments may decide this tight contest. Still, India hold a 52% win probability versus Australia’s 48%.