Hobart, November 2, 2025 - All eyes are on the Bellerive Oval in Hobart as Australia and India prepare to face off in the crucial third T20 International of their five-match series. With the series currently standing at 1-0 in favor of the home side after the first match was washed out and Australia's dominant win in Melbourne, India is under pressure to bounce back and level the series. Meanwhile, Australia will be looking to extend their lead and take a firm grip on the series.
The big news coming out of the Australian camp is the return of Glenn Maxwell. The explosive all-rounder has recovered from a wrist injury that has kept him out of action since mid-September. Maxwell's return is a significant boost for the Aussies, who will be without Josh Hazlewood for the remaining matches. Maxwell's inclusion adds firepower to the middle order and presents a unique challenge to India's spin attack. His aggressive batting style and ability to take on bowlers make him a game-changer. It is likely that either Mitchell Owen or Matthew Short will make way for Maxwell. The rest of the Australian lineup looks solid, with Mitchell Marsh leading a confident side that includes Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis.
India, on the other hand, faces an uphill battle. After being bundled out for a mere 125 in Melbourne, their batting lineup needs to fire. Abhishek Sharma's quickfire 68 was the only significant contribution in the previous match, highlighting the team's over-reliance on a few individuals. India's top order was dismantled by Josh Hazlewood in the previous match. While Hazlewood's absence might ease some pressure, the return of Maxwell presents a different kind of threat. The Indian team selection will be crucial for this match, with questions lingering about the balance of the side. It remains to be seen whether Shivam Dube offers enough with the ball in Australian conditions or if specialist finisher Rinku Singh would be a better option.
The conditions at the Bellerive Oval could play a significant role in the outcome of the match. Early-season matches in Hobart have often seen lower totals, with first-innings scores averaging around 148. This could favor India if their pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah, can exploit the conditions. Bumrah is also chasing a milestone, needing just two wickets to reach 100 T20I wickets.
Players to watch in this crucial encounter include Abhishek Sharma, who will be looking to replicate his heroics from the previous game. Mitchell Marsh's leadership and power-hitting make him a key player for Australia. Glenn Maxwell's return adds another dimension to the Australian batting lineup and his ability to counter India's spin attack will be closely watched.
Overall, Australia appears to have a slight edge heading into the third T20I. Their strong batting lineup, led by Marsh and boosted by the return of Maxwell, combined with their potent bowling attack, makes them a formidable opponent. However, India has the talent and experience to bounce back, and if their batting clicks, they can certainly challenge the Aussies. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter with both teams desperate for a win.
