Australia crushed India by 4 wickets in the second T20I at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. This after the opening match in Canberra ended in a no result. Chasing a small target of 126, the hosts reached the score in just 13.2 overs, despite losing a few quick wickets towards the end.
India, who batted first after being put in, were bowled out for only 125 runs in 18.4 overs. Young opener Abhishek Sharma played a fine counterattacking knock of 68 off 37 balls and got some crucial help from Harshit Rana. However, the rest of the batting collapsed around him as India lost half their side inside 8 overs, and the lower order also fell quickly.
For Australia, Josh Hazlewood was outstanding with the ball, taking 3 for 13 in his four overs. He was named the Player of the Match for his lethal bowling in the powerplay. Nathan Ellis and Xavier Bartlett picked up two wickets each, while Marcus Stoinis also got one to his name.
In reply, Australia got off to a flying start thanks to captain Mitchell Marsh, who smashed 46 off just 26 balls. Travis Head supported him well with a quick 28 off 15, and the pair added 51 runs for the first wicket. Despite a small stumble in the middle overs, Australia’s chase was never in doubt.
For India, Varun Chakravarthy and Kuldeep Yadav both took two wickets each, while Jasprit Bumrah picked up 2 for 26 and was the best among the bowlers. With this victory, Australia now lead the five-match series 1-0. The third T20I will be played in Sydney on Sunday, where India will look to bounce back and keep the series alive.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsFans react to India’s crushing defeat
Indian fans are unhappy with the team’s effort and took to social media to slam the performance. Many expressed frustration over the team’s lack of intent, while others praised Australia for humbling the Indian side again.
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