NEW DELHI: Unusual scenes unfolded during the fifth and final T20I between India and Australia at The Gabba in Brisbane when players rushed off the field and play was stopped despite no rain. The interruption occurred due to lightning, after the scoreboard flashed a message reading: "It is unsafe to remain in open areas."

Several spectators in the lower stands, which were unsheltered, were also asked to move to the covered upper sections as a severe lightning threat loomed.

Matthew Hayden, who was on commentary, explained that a heavy storm was approaching the stadium and that rain could lash down within the next few minutes.

According to AccuWeather, a severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for the city, with forecasts predicting heavy rainfall over the next few hours. If the weather holds true, further play looks highly unlikely.

In case the match is washed out, India will clinch the series 2-1. The Men in Blue had lost the second game but bounced back strongly to win the third and fourth T20Is, while the series opener was also abandoned due to rain.

India were going hammer and tongs when play was halted, with Shubman Gill unbeaten on 29 off 16 balls and Abhishek Sharma not out on 23 off 13. The visitors were cruising at 52 for no loss in 4.5 overs after being put into bat.