India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has pinpointed the powerplay as the battleground that will decide the upcoming five-match series against Australia, starting Wednesday in Canberra. With Jasprit Bumrah leading the charge, Surya hailed the pace spearhead’s experience and aggression as a “major asset” against Australia’s explosive top order. “Powerplay is always important. Bumrah took responsibility in the Asia Cup, bowling minimum two overs upfront—he’s raising his hand to own that phase,” Surya declared in the pre-series presser.

Bumrah, the most seasoned campaigner in Australia within the squad, has already mentored younger players on local conditions. “He knows how to prepare, how to peak here—he’s visited this country the most,” Surya noted, underlining the bowler’s tactical edge on bouncy tracks. The captain views the series as critical World Cup 2026 buildup, with conditions mirroring South Africa—expect one strike pacer, one all-rounder, and three spinners in the mix.

On the injury front, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is on track for a T20I return after missing the final ODI with a quadriceps strain. “He ran and batted yesterday, looks good,” Surya confirmed, boosting India’s depth. Fielding remains a priority after recent lapses—despite an optional session, every player turned up to drill catches. “We want to be the best fielding unit in the world. Intent matters more than perfection,” the skipper asserted.

Also Read: Rohit and Kohli Rise Again: Sydney Showdown Proves Legends Never Fade

With a stacked squad posing “good headaches” for selection, Surya emphasized collective hunger over individual roles. “From top to seven, anyone can bat anywhere. The goal is simple—win for India.” Citing Rinku Singh’s clutch Asia Cup final cameo, he stressed opportunity can strike anytime. On Shivam Dube, Surya backed his bowling evolution: “I trusted him to bowl twice in the final—he’s clear, prepared, and ready.” As the series looms, India’s blueprint is set: dominate early, adapt ruthlessly, and let Bumrah detonate.

Also Read: Rohit Sharma’s Century, Kohli’s Brilliance Power India to 9-Wicket Win Over Australia in Sydney