India head into the five-match T20I series against Australia in good form, having dominated the format in recent times. After a comfortable Asia Cup outing, the Aussies will test their adaptability. It will also be a crucial test for captain Suryakumar Yadav.

Hardik Pandya’s injury during the Asia Cup has ruled him out of the series. His absence will allow Shivam Dube to add balance. His role against spin could be crucial.

With Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill leading the charge at the top, followed by Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, India’s batting order seems well-settled. Sanju Samson, who was backed in the Asia Cup, is likely to keep his spot, meaning Jitesh Sharma might have to wait a little longer.

Kuldeep Yadav had an outstanding Asia Cup, claiming 17 wickets to finish as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker. Surprisingly, India opted to rest him for the opening two ODIs against Australia, bringing him back only for the final match. He is, however, expected to start in the series opener.

India continue to prefer batting depth in the T20 format, which could see Nitish Kumar Reddy earn a place ahead of Arshdeep Singh, who wasn’t part of the lineup during the Asia Cup. Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, and Harshit Rana are unlikely to feature.

India’s Predicted Playing XI for 1st T20I: Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (WK), Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy/Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy