NEW DELHI: India clinched the five-match T20 International series against Australia 2-1 after the fifth and final game was abandoned due to rain at the Gabba on Saturday.

Abhishek and Gill light up the Gabba

Put in to bat, India made a fiery start with openers Abhishek Sharma (23* off 13) and Shubman Gill (29* off 16) going on the attack from the first over. Both played with intent, punishing anything loose as India stormed to 52 for no loss in just 4.5 overs before lightning forced the players off. Minutes later, heavy rain swept across Brisbane, bringing the contest to a premature end.

Australia had opportunities to dismiss Abhishek early but failed to grab them. Glenn Maxwell dropped a sitter when the left-hander miscued a shot in the opening over, and Ben Dwarshuis spilled another catch in the fourth. Three balls later, Abhishek sent the ball sailing over mid-wicket for a flat six that thrilled the Indian supporters.

India seal the series despite weather woes

The series had plenty of twists. The first game was washed out, while Australia took the second at the MCG with a four-wicket win. India hit back strongly in Hobart with a five-wicket victory and followed it up with a sensational win in Queensland, defending a modest total with discipline and flair. With the final game abandoned, India secured the five-match series 2-1, continuing their fine run in T20 cricket.

(With PTI Inputs)