NEW DELHI: Rain had the final say as the fifth and final T20I between India and Australia in Brisbane was called off due to lightning followed by persistent showers. Only 4.5 overs of play were possible, during which India raced to 52/0 after being asked to bat first.

With the washout, India clinched the five-match series 2-1, as the opening game had also been abandoned due to rain.

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Indian opener Abhishek Sharma once again emerged as the standout performer for India, finishing the series as the leading run-getter with 163 runs in five innings, including a half-century.

For his consistent brilliance with the bat, the top-ranked T20I batter was named Player of the Series - his second consecutive honour, having earlier been adjudged Player of the Tournament during India's triumphant Asia Cup campaign in September this year.

Abhishek expressed his delight after being named Player of the Series, saying he had been eagerly waiting for the opportunity to perform on this tour.

"I've been waiting for this tour and was excited ever since the series was confirmed," Abhishek said after the match. "The pitches were quite batting-friendly, and while I feel we could have posted even bigger totals, overall we've done well as a team."

Reflecting on his face-off with Australia's pace spearhead, the left-hander added, "The way Hazlewood was bowling will be useful going forward. I've enjoyed my battles with him. I was preparing specifically for bowlers like him because that's how you build momentum for your team."

No rain, yet play stopped! Here's why India vs Australia 5th T20I was halted in Brisbane

Abhishek credited his success to the faith shown by the team management. "My captain and coach have given me the responsibility to play freely and give the team strong starts. They've provided me with the clarity and freedom to express myself," he said.

Looking ahead, the top-ranked T20I batter said featuring in the T20 World Cup would be a dream come true. "The T20 World Cup is one of the biggest tournaments - it'll be a dream moment if and when I get to play there. I'll make sure I'm ready for it," he signed off.