Team India continued their strong run in the T20 series against Australia. However, it clinched a commanding 48-run victory in the Carrara Stadium, Queensland. Yet. Washington Sundar became the hero of the match, as he delivered a game-changing performance with the ball. Moreover, he takes three wickets for just 3 runs in 1.2 overs.
The bowling unit of India produced a clinical all-round show to bundle out Australia for 119 in 18.2 while defending a modest total of 167/8. Hence, he takes an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Early Fireworks from India’s Top Order
India won the toss and elected to bat. Hence, it got off to a positive start through the openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, who shared a 56-run partnership. However, Gill anchored the innings with a composed 46 off 39 balls. In contrast, Sharma smashed 28 off 21 by hitting three fours and a six.
Skipper Suryakumar Yadav added a brisk 20 off 10 balls. However, he showcased his trademark aggression with two sixes before being dismissed. After that, Shivam Dube (22 off 18) and Axar Patel (21* off 11) played handy cameos as India posted 167 for 8 in their 20 overs
Nathan Ellis was exceptional for Australia with his disciplined line and pace variation because he returned 3 for 21 in his four overs. However, Adam Zampa was also among the wickets because he claimed 3 for 45. Moreover, Marcus Stoinis and Xavier Bartlett took one wicket each.
Australia’s Chase Falters Despite Marsh’s Effort
Australia got off to a steady start due to captain Mitchell Marsh (30 off 24) and Matthew Short (25 off 19) while chasing 168. Moreover, the duo added 44 in the power play. However, India clawed their way into the contest once Axar Patel removed Short.
On top of that, Marsh’s dismissal of Shivam Dube in the 9th over proved to be the turning point. After that middle order collapsed badly, as Josh Inglis (12), Tim David (14), and Marcus Stoinis (17) failed to capitalise.
Moreover, the lower order offered little resistance as Adam Zampa and Xavier Bartlett were dismissed for a duck. Similarly, Ben Dwarshuis managed just five runs. However, Nathan Ellis remained unbeaten with two runs.
Washington Sundar, Axar & Dube Seal the Game
India’s bowling attack, led by Sundar, dominated the second inning of the match. However, Washington Sundar’s 3/3 spell dismantled the lower order of Australia. In addition, Axar Patel continued his fine form by picking up 2 for 20 in 4 overs. In contrast, Shivam Dube chipped in with 2 for 20 in 2 overs.
On the other hand, pace duo Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, along with Varun Chakaravarthy, grabbed one wicket each to ensure Australia never gained the momentum. Moreover, the combined spin attack of Sundar, Axar, and Chakaravarthy proved too hot to handle for the Aussies, as the hosts lost their last seven wickets for just 28 runs.
Key Performers in India vs Australia
| Player | Performance |
| Washington Sundar | 3/3 in 1.2 overs |
| Axar Patel | 2/20 in 4 overs, 21* off 11 balls |
| Shubman Gill | 46 (39) |
| Suryakumar Yadav | 20 (10) |
| Nathan Ellis | 3/21 |
| Adam Zampa | 3/45 |
| Mitchell Marsh | 30 (24) |
| Marcus Stoinis | 17 (13) |
Series Situation and What’s Next
Now, India is leading the series 2-1 with this empathetic win. However, Australia has one last chance to level the series in the fifth and final T20I scheduled in Brisbane on the 8th of November. Yet, this match has highlighted India’s growing bowling strength in depth, with Sundar’s comeback, Axar’s consistency, and Suryakumar Yadav’s leadership being the standout positives. It is important, especially before the T20I coming near.
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