Top 5 star performers in India-Australia T20I series

Though the recently-concluded T20I series between India and Australia lacked star power, with several seniors like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mitchell Starc, David Warner giving it a miss, the bilateral series proved to be of great value for several fringe players, serving as an audition for the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 to be held in West Indies and USA next year. Here are some players who can make the squad of their respective teams for the marquee event in T20I cricket. (Getty Images)

Bishnoi was a standout performer for India, taking a total of nine wickets in five matches, three more than any other player at an economy rate of just 8.20. His performances earned him the 'Player of the Series' award. He could be battling the likes of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Ashwin for a couple of slow bowling slots, but Ravi has showcased his capability enough in 21 T20Is played so far, taking a total of 34 wickets at an average of 17.38 and an economy rate of just above seven. (ANI Photo)

Behrendorff has struggled for a regular place in the side due to the presence of big three pacers, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. But during this series, he put his name out for selection in a big tournament once again. He claimed six wickets in four matches, with his best figures coming in the fourth T20I - 2/32. The most impressive trait of Behrendorff's bowling this series was his miserly economy rate of just 6.68, the best among all Australian bowlers. (PTI Photo)

Rinku's 105 runs in the series of five matches do not have a lot of impact on face value, but the ones following the matches know the real impact of the rising left-hander as a finisher. His strike rate was an impressive 175, more than any other batter. His fours and sixes in the final few overs proved to be extremely useful for India and gave them an extra 15-20 runs to fight a competitive Aussie side. Rinku will be looked on by selectors as they continue their search for a finisher. (PTI Photo)

The young Australian spinner Sangha played in all five matches in the series, taking five wickets overall, the finest of which came in the fourth game of the series, taking 2/30. During the series, just two of Australia's wicket-takers bowled at a more economical economy rate. Sangha appears to be the most sensible option to travel as a backup for the T20 World Cup, even if he is probably going to be behind first-choice spinner Adam Zampa. (Getty Images)

Gaikwad never fails to impress when allowed to play on the international stage. The right-hander scored an incredible 123* in the series' third encounter, and his 223 runs overall -- by far the most of any player over the five matches -- made him India's lone century-maker during the series. Should selectors choose, Gaikwad could easily partner captain Rohit Sharma at the top of India's batting order at the T20 World Cup. (AP Photo)