3 reasons why India can win the T20 series against Australia despite losing the first match

The Indian tour of Australia has begun, and that too with a nail-biting thriller. India ultimately lost the T20 match at Brisbane even though they scored more runs than Australia.

Had it not been for the rains and the D/L method, the story might have been different. Australia scored 158/4 in 17 overs and India were asked to chase 174 in 17 overs (calculated by D/L method). They scored 169/7, falling short by four runs.

The series comprises three T20 matches. And having gone 0-1 down, the Indian team stands on rough terrain at the moment.

However, there are a few positives from this match which suggest that India can still win the series. Here are three reasons why India can win the series 2-1.

#1 Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have yet to fire and either/both of them can explode in the next match

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are the mainstays of the Indian batting in the T20 format. They are the fulcrum around which most of the Indian batting revolves.

Sharma got out cheaply for seven in the first T20I, while Kohli made four. Despite their non-performance though, India produced a thriller and surpassed the Australian total.

The next match will give them a chance to think and plan their next move. Considering the kind of form they are in, one of them can definitely score a big score. And if both of them click, only the heavens can protect Australia from the jaws of defeat.

#2 Khaleel Ahmed can be the X factor

Khaleel Ahmed

Khaleel Ahmed is a bowler who can be a game-changer. He is fast, aggressive and menacing. Ahmed has speed (145+km/h), and bowls in the right areas.

Being new to international cricket and this being his first tour to Australia, he went for runs today. But Kohli is a sharp captain, and he knows Ahmed can be the X-factor if they are to win in Australia.

The bowlers did not get enough match practice after arriving Down Under. Today's game would serve as a guiding light for the pacer to learn and analyze the Australian conditions, batsmen, and the pitches.

The next game could well see Ahmed give his best in terms of pace, bounce, and variations. He would be raring to go all out and perform to the best of his abilities.

#3 Kuldeep Yadav can turn the match by himself

Kuldeep Yadav

Kuldeep Yadav has been magical for India. The left-arm unorthodox bowler has taken 31 wickets in 15 T20 matches, which is phenomenal by any standard.

Kuldeep has taken those wickets against Australia, West Indies, England, Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Ireland, both in India and the respective countries. That shows his adaptability and skill level.

In the first match, he took two wickets at an economy rate of six. His past record and recent form suggest he can go for the kill in the next match. If that happens, the Australian team will be in jeopardy.