“I think it would have been a very different series”

former captain Michael Clarke claimed that the recently concluded ODI series between Australia and India could have been very different. He felt the visitors lost two key players who could have made a big difference.

India lost the three-match series 1–2. They chose to rest in peace jasprit bumrah for the ODIs. All-terrain star Hardik Pandya suffered a left quadriceps injury during the Asian Cup 2025 and was ruled out of the entire tour of Australia.

Michael Clarke estimated that this Indian team would take some time to acclimatise to the Australian conditions.

“India are a different team with Bumrah. I think that's the other thing we're seeing. They haven't played much cricket together, this Indian T20 team, so it takes a bit of time to get used to the Australian conditions. But I think when Bumrah plays, they're a different team and that's what they missed in the one-day series,” he told the 'Beyond23 Cricket Podcast'.

India's decision to rest Bumrah for the ODIs backfired as they lost the series. Harshit Rana, who played in place of Bumrah, picked up six wickets from three matches. However, he could not lead the hosts to win the series.

However, Bumrah is part of the ongoing five-match T20I series. Michael Clarke reflected that being able to make the difference between victory and defeat is what made the Indian ace pacer so good.

“Watching him play in these T20s, it's unique. He's actually that good. Being an individual player and being able to be so decisive in a win or a loss shows what a good player he is,” he added.

Although he has only picked up two wickets from other matches so far, he has been effective enough. He has averaged 26 with an economy of 6.50.

---

Michael Clarke reflects on the upcoming matches of the T20I series

Michael Clarke also reflected that the T20I series was well placed. The first match was eliminated while Australia won the second. However, India bounced back in the third game to level the series 1–1. With two games remaining, the series is tied.

“It's going to be good now. Now that both teams have won a game, especially India, I think it does their confidence good. Australia have to find ways. Playing at the Gabba suits Australia's style more than Gold Coast. I think the wicket will be slower there. It will be interesting to see if they make any changes. The series is in a good place,” he said.

The fourth T20I will be played on the Gold Coast on Thursday, November 6. Brisbane will host the final T20I of the series on Saturday, November 8.