India’s performance in the rain-affected opener in Canberra set the stage for contemplation ahead of the upcoming second T20I in Melbourne. The recent form of Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill has bolstered India’s top order. Yet, a key question remains – will Arshdeep Singh be given a chance to play after being benched in the previous match?
The decision to sideline Arshdeep for the first T20I raised eyebrows, considering his proficiency in the format. Known for his expertise in the death overs, Arshdeep’s knack for swinging the new ball and delivering yorkers under pressure has often been pivotal for India in close encounters. Despite this, the team management seems inclined towards testing Harshit Rana, who impressed with a four-wicket haul in the Sydney ODI. While Jasprit Bumrah’s spot in the lineup is secure, the debate intensifies over the selection of the second pacer.
Under the leadership of head coach Gautam Gambhir, India has displayed a willingness to explore new strategies. In the previous match, the team opted for a spin-heavy attack in Canberra, fielding Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Varun Chakravarthy alongside pace bowlers Bumrah and Harshit Rana, with Shivam Dube offering a part-time bowling option. However, the pitch conditions at the MCG may necessitate an additional pace bowler, potentially opening the door for Arshdeep’s inclusion.
If the management opts for rotation, Arshdeep could potentially replace either Chakravarthy or one of the pacers, adding balance with his left-arm angle and expertise in the death overs. His presence would offer India a genuine wicket-taking threat during both the powerplay and slog overs, crucial phases that could sway the match against a dynamic Australian batting lineup.
Meanwhile, for Australia, this match marks the final appearance for Josh Hazlewood before he shifts focus to preparations for the Ashes series.
In the upcoming 2nd T20I between India and Australia, the predicted XIs are as follows:
**India predicted XI:** Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav/Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.
**Australia Predicted XI:** Mitchell Marsh (captain), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Tim David, Mitchell Owen, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Philippe, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Josh Hazlewood.