Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers believes Australia holds a slight advantage in the ongoing T20I series against India. He suggests that the Australian side could once again outperform the visitors, despite India’s impressive recent form in the shortest format of the game.
Speaking on social media platform X, de Villiers described the five-match series between these two top-ranked T20I teams as a “rollercoaster of a ride,” anticipating an emotional and highly competitive contest. “It is an away series for India, so maybe Aussies are slight favorites,” he commented, noting that both teams boast comparable form and firepower.
De Villiers emphasized, “These are the two best teams in T20 internationals at the moment.” He pointed to India’s remarkable 88.9% win rate since July 2024 and Australia’s equally strong 84.2% during the same period, calling these statistics “incredible in T20s.”
He attributed the success of both nations in T20 cricket to the Indian Premier League (IPL), stating that the tournament significantly hones players’ skills and boosts their confidence. He noted, “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.”
Highlighting the formidable batting strength of both sides, de Villiers observed that “Australia hits a six (boundary) every 10.6 balls, with India second on the table with a six every 12.1 balls.” He further lauded the balance and experience within both squads, concluding, “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 match in Canberra on Wednesday was abandoned due to persistent rain, with no result declared. India had made a promising start, reaching 97 for one in 9.4 overs, with Suryakumar Yadav on 39 not out and Shubman Gill on 37 when play ceased.
The series now moves to the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the second match on Friday. India will be eager to build on their early momentum, while de Villiers’ prediction suggests a challenging encounter against the slightly favored hosts.