The opening T20I between India and Australia at the Manuka Oval witnessed an unexpected delay just after the first ball of the innings was bowled, following a disturbance in the background sight screen.
Australia’s Josh Hazlewood opened the attack, delivering a short ball on the leg side to Abhishek Sharma, who advanced down the pitch but could only steer it towards cover-point for no run. Moments later, umpires signalled a pause in play due to noise and movement behind the bowler’s arm, reportedly caused by a section of the crowd near the sightscreen area.
On-field situation
Players were seen waiting near the pitch as security personnel and match officials intervened to address the issue.
Commentators on air confirmed that there was a minor disturbance behind the bowler’s arm, leading to the temporary stoppage.
“The players have been asked to wait a few minutes till things settle down,” the broadcasters noted.
As per the latest update, the match is expected to resume shortly once normalcy returns.
Brief recap of the start
India began their innings with Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill opening the batting. Hazlewood took the new ball for Australia under cool conditions in Canberra, with the pitch showing even bounce and a hint of seam movement early on.
Australia had earlier won the toss and opted to bowl first, citing the potential impact of dew later in the evening.
Current Status:
- Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra
- Match: India vs Australia, 1st T20I
- Toss: Australia won and chose to bowl
- Play: Temporarily halted after first delivery due to crowd disturbance
- Update: Play expected to resume shortly
Stay tuned for live score updates and further developments from the ground.
