 "Washington Sundar smashed an unbeaten 49 to help India win the 3rd T20I and level the series 1-1. Image: AFP")
Washington Sundar showed his all-round brilliance again as India defeated Australia by five wickets in the 3rd T20I at Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Sunday. With this win, India levelled the five-match series 1–1, and also handed Australia their first-ever T20I defeat at the venue.
Australia rode on a blistering knock from Tim David and Marcus Stoinis to post 186/6 in their 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh was India’s best bowler, finishing with figures of 3 for 35, and was later named Player of the Match. The left-armer struck twice early, removing Travis Head and Josh Inglis to leave Australia struggling at 14/2, before returning at the death to pick up Stoinis.
India’s chase began in style as Abhishek Sharma smashed a few early boundaries. Suryakumar Yadav continued the charge, while Tilak Varma and Axar Patel kept India going in the middle. But it was Washington Sundar who turned the game in India’s favour with a sensational unbeaten 49 off just 23 balls. He was well supported well by Jitesh Sharma, who helped finish the job with nine balls to spare.
Irfan Pathan and fans laud Sundar
Sundar’s batting drew widespread praise from fans and experts on social media. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan wrote on X, “What a lovely innings this from Washington Sundar. Took the shot away with touch of class.” Fans shared memes and jokes to pour more admiration for Sundar on the platform.