Overview
- Shubman Gill opened in the washed-out first T20I in Canberra and made an unbeaten 37 off 20 balls as India reached 78 for 1 in 9.4 overs before rain ended play.
- Speaking to broadcasters, Sanju Samson said he has opened and finished innings previously and is now prepared to contribute from the middle order.
- Samson had flourished as a T20I opener under Gautam Gambhir, registering three centuries in a single calendar year.
- After Gill’s return during the Asia Cup, Samson shifted down the order yet still scored 132 runs in four innings, including a steadying knock in the final against Pakistan.
- Former opener Kris Srikkanth criticized team management for frequently moving Samson’s batting position, as India continues T20 World Cup preparations with the next match set for October 31 at the MCG.