Why Grace Harris is Not Playing Today in AUS vs IND 1st T20I?

After the conclusion of the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026, the Indian women's cricket team are back in action for a multi-series tour of Australia. The tour starts with a three-match T20I series, followed by a Test match and a three-match ODI series.

The first T20I of the series is being played at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, one of the most beautiful cricket stadiums in the world. India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and opted to bowl first. Meanwhile, Australia are playing without their key player Grace Harris, who is one of the most destructive batters in this format.

Why Grace Harris is Not Playing Today Against India?

Australia star all-rounder Grace Harris hasn't been included in the AUS vs IND 1st T20I in Sydney. The reason behind her exclusion wasn't revealed as it due to the team combination they wanted to make, which didn't make room for the star player.

Despite not having Harris in the playing XI, Australia have plenty of all-rounders who can turn the game in their favour. No player can be considered as Grace Harris replacement for the match as it's the first clash of the series. However, the big-hitter can come into the playing 11 in the upcoming games.

Harris is arguably one of the best women cricketers at the moment. However, Australia's immense batting depth ensured that she wasn't part of the team for the first match. She is known for her big hitting, which makes her a dangerous batter in this format.

Grace Harris' Recent T20 Performances

Grace Harris, who usually plays the role of a finisher in the Australian team, was seen in an entirely different role in the recently-concluded WPL 2026. Playing for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), she was seen opening alongside her skipper Smriti Mandhana. The exciting move went in RCB's favour as Harris amassed 237 runs in the nine matches, including two half-centuries.

The star player batted at an exceptional strike rate of 178.20 and played a big role in helping RCB Women lift their second WPL title, equaling the record of the Mumbai Indians (MI). Interestingly, Harris only bowled three overs in the entire tournament, conceding 22 runs and picking up two wickets.

It would be interesting to see if the Australian team management gives her the same batting spot to create more impact in the game. With some exceptional batting depth, Harris can be considered for the opening slot in the upcoming T20 World Cup.