HOBART: India leveled the five-match T20I series 1-1 after an electrifying chase led by Washington Sundar and Arshdeep Singh at the Bellerive Oval. Washington’s unbeaten 49 off just 23 balls guided India to a thrilling five-wicket win over Australia in the second T20I.
Chasing a target of 187, India reached 189-5 in just 18.3 overs, thanks to Washington’s sensational late surge. The all-rounder arrived when India were in a tricky position at 111-4 and steadied the innings with two key partnerships — 34 runs with Tilak Verma and 43 from 25 balls alongside Jitesh Sharma — ensuring a comfortable finish for the Men in Blue.
Earlier, India had a flying start as openers Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill piled up 33 runs within the first 3.3 overs. Abhishek showcased aggressive intent with boundaries and sixes early on, but his innings was cut short by Nathan Ellis after a quickfire 25 off 16 balls. Gill, still struggling for form, departed for 15 (12), leaving India at 61-2.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav looked in fluent touch, smashing 24 off 11 balls with two sixes and a four before being dismissed in the seventh over. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, India’s chase was stabilized by Washington Sundar’s aggressive yet calculated batting display — featuring four sixes and three fours.
Abhishek Sharma, returning in place of Sanju Samson, added an unbeaten 22 from 13 balls, sealing the game for India with three crisp boundaries.
On the bowling front, Nathan Ellis was Australia’s standout performer, taking 3 wickets for 35 runs in four overs.
Earlier in the innings, Tim David powered Australia to 186-6 with a fiery 74 off 38 balls, decorated with eight fours and five sixes. Marcus Stoinis also contributed a vital 64 from 39 balls after Australia stumbled early at 14-2.
For India, Arshdeep Singh bowled brilliantly, picking up three wickets for 35 runs, while Varun Chakravarthy added two wickets to keep Australia in check.
With this win, India regained momentum in the series and will look to build on their performance in the upcoming matches.
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