Brisbane rain could hurt Australia's series hopes

Ground staff rush to cover the wicket during a rain delay on the first day of the Brisbane Test. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

Brisbane's rain threatens to thwart Australia's attempt to take back the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, after all but 13.2 overs of the opening day were washed away.

Australia were 0-28 when rain stopped play before lunch at the Gabba on Saturday, before persistent heavy showers stopped players from returning at any point.

In terms of the opening day, the rain may not have been a bad result for Australia.

After India won the toss and bowled, Saturday had loomed as the toughest day to bat, with heavy cloud overhead and an even covering of grass.

Usman Khawaja (19no) did well to bat with intent in the opening overs, while Nathan McSweeney (4no) was particularly watchful in his fifth Test-match innings.

But as dark grey clouds swirled around the Gabba close to lunch, the ball began to swing more and was regularly beating the outside edge of the bat.

Torrential rain made for trying conditions for players and ground staff at the Gabba. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

Pressure was building on Australia's batters, and it got to the point where it looked like something had to give, before the heavy rain hit and stopped play.

The pitch is likely to have some juice in it on Sunday morning, but India's decision to bowl first could be nullified if Australia's openers survive beyond the first session.

Beyond Sunday, the threat of rain exists for the final three days at the Gabba, with a high chance of showers on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

That could spell bad news for Australia, if more interruptions mean both teams leave Brisbane with the series still level at 1-1 with two Tests to play.

India need only draw the series to retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, given they are its current holders.

It means a win in either Melbourne or Sydney would be enough for the tourists to keep the trophy for a fifth straight series.

India have won their past two Tests at the MCG, also drawing there in 2014-15 on a much flatter drop-in wicket than the one that exists in Melbourne today.

Their past three Tests at the SCG have been draws.

If the Brisbane Test is drawn, Australia will either need to win in both Melbourne and Sydney, or win one and have the other end in a draw.