All-round Axar and Spinners Propel India to Lead
CHENNAI: On the Carrara pitch in Gold Coast, described as a sub-continental wicket by India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav before the toss, Australia won the toss and asked India to bat in the penultimate game of the five-match T20I series on Thursday.
India, unchanged from their previous lineup, posted a total of 167 for 8 wickets. Although the score seemed slightly below par at the halfway point, it ultimately proved sufficient.
Spin Duo Dominates Australian Batting
The pitch, resembling typical Indian conditions, gave India's spinners the upper hand during Australia's chase. Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar shared six wickets, as Australia was bowled out for 119 in 18.2 overs, handing India a commanding 48-run victory.
This win gave India an unbeatable 2-1 lead in the series. The final match will take place in Brisbane on Saturday.
Key Moments in the Bowling Attack
Brought into the attack during the fifth over, Axar Patel immediately made an impact by dismissing opener Matthew Short. Though the umpire was initially uncertain, captain Yadav’s review confirmed the wicket, marking India's first breakthrough.
Australia’s scoring slowed significantly after this, managing only 30 runs in the following four overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis attempted an aggressive shot but was bowled after stepping down the pitch.
"The dismissal slowed down Australia's run rate as they could score only 30 runs in the next four overs."
India’s spin attack controlled the innings and secured a vital win to put them in a favorable position for the series decider.
Author's summary: India's spinners, led by Axar Patel, dominated on a sub-continental style pitch to secure a crucial 48-run win, giving India a 2-1 lead in the T20I series.