India vs Australia T20I: Team Selection Faces Scrutiny in Hobart Showdown
As the much-anticipated T20I showdown between India and Australia approaches, team selection becomes a pivotal topic. Set for November 2, 2025, at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart, India faces scrutiny after their recent performance.
Recent Challenges for India
In their last outing, India struggled against Australia in Melbourne. They were bowled out for 125 runs, resulting in a significant defeat. A standout player for Australia was Josh Hazlewood, who has consistently troubled the Indian batsmen throughout the series. India’s bowling lineup faced criticism, particularly for underutilizing their fast bowlers.
- Harshit Rana batted at No. 7
- Arshdeep Singh was not included in the squad
- Three spinners were fielded against Australia’s fast attack
Given the pace-friendly conditions in Australia, the decision to exclude a specialist fast bowler like Arshdeep Singh raises questions. He is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, yet has struggled to secure his place in the team.
Potential Changes Ahead of Hobart
India might consider making crucial adjustments for the Hobart match. Valued all-rounder Shivam Dube faced criticism after being sent to bat late without bowling. His position could be reassessed, potentially making room for a stronger batting option, such as Rinku Singh, who excels against fast bowling.
Australian Lineup Adjustments
Australia will be without Josh Hazlewood for the upcoming match as he prepares for the Ashes series. Replacing him is Mahli Beardman, a promising 20-year-old fast bowler known for his speed.
- Glenn Maxwell returns to the Australian squad after recovering from a wrist injury.
- Maxwell’s unpredictability strengthens the Australian middle order.
Expectations are high for Maxwell’s impact as he re-enters a formidable batting setup.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The pitch at Bellerive Oval is known for producing varied scores. On windy days, batting becomes challenging, potentially aiding swing bowlers. Conversely, favorable conditions might favor high scores due to smaller boundaries.
Forecasts indicate clear weather for the match day, with a par score anticipated between 160 to 170 runs. Teams will need to adapt to the pitch characteristics for effective play.
Match Information
Date: November 2, 2025
Time: 1:45 PM IST
Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart
Live Streaming Details
Fans can catch the match live on the Star Sports Network, with streaming available on the JioStar app and website.
Probable Playing Elevens
| India (Predicted XI) | Australia (Predicted XI) |
|---|---|
| Shubman Gill | Mitchell Marsh (c) |
| Abhishek Sharma | Travis Head |
| Suryakumar Yadav (c) | Josh Inglis (wk) |
| Tilak Varma | Tim David |
| Sanju Samson (wk) | Glenn Maxwell |
| Axar Patel | Mitchell Owen/Matthew Short |
| Rinku Singh | Marcus Stoinis |
| Harshit Rana | Xavier Bartlett |
| Kuldeep Yadav/Arshdeep Singh | Nathan Ellis |
| Varun Chakravarthy | Sean Abbott |
| Jasprit Bumrah | Matt Kuhnemann |
As India prepares to face Australia, team selection remains a critical element. Fans will eagerly await to see if the management addresses the pressing questions on the team’s composition.
