The first T20I in Canberra on Wednesday was abandoned due to rain.
South African legend AB de Villiers reckons Australia will start as 'slight' favorites in the ongoing T20I series against India, despite both teams’ strong recent form in the shortest format.
In a video uploaded on X, de Villiers called the five-match contest between the two sides “a rollercoaster of a ride” and predicted a highly competitive series.
“It is an away series for India, so maybe Aussies slight favourites. These are the two best teams in T20 internationals at the moment,” de Villiers said, highlighting India’s 88.9% win since July 2024 and Australia’s 84.2% in the same timeframe. “That is incredible in T20s, by the way,” he added.
The former Proteas captain credited the IPL for both teams’ success in T20 cricket. “I think the Australian participation is the most of any country, obviously apart from India, in the IPL. Their players getting incredible exposure over there — obviously Team India really reaping the rewards of the IPL. I think it plays a big role,” he said.
De Villiers emphasized the dominance of both batting line-ups, noting that “Australia hits a six (boundary) every 10.6 balls, with India second on the table with a six every 12.1 balls.”
He also pointed out the amalgamation of youth and experience in both squads, saying, “Star-studded teams, these two squads. Most players are in form. It’s definitely the number one and two T20 international teams in the world at the moment.”
The first T20I in Canberra on Wednesday (October 29) was abandoned due to persistent rain. The visitors had made a strong start, reaching 97/1 in 9.4 overs, with skipper Suryakumar Yadav unbeaten on 39 and his deputy Shubman Gill on 37 when the game was called off.
The second T20I of the five-match series will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday (October 31).