India produced a clinical all-round performance to beat Australia by 48 runs in the fourth T20I, taking a 2–1 lead in the five-match series after the first game was abandoned due to rain. A superb bowling display from Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Varun Chakaravarthy ensured that India defended a total of 167 comfortably.
Sent in to bat, India built a strong platform through Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, who gave a fluent start. Gill anchored the innings and added a valuable partnership with skipper Suryakumar Yadav, taking India to 121/2 in 14 overs. Though wickets fell in clusters afterward, a crucial late surge from Axar Patel lifted India to a fighting 167/8. For Australia, Nathan Ellis was the standout with 3 for 21, using his variations effectively.
In response, Australia began briskly through Matthew Short, but India’s spinners soon took control. Axar Patel struck twice early, removing both Matt Short and Josh Inglis to peg the hosts back. Varun Chakaravarthy added to the pressure with the big wicket of Glenn Maxwell, who fell trying to force the pace.
The real damage, however, came from Washington Sundar, who bowled with control and variety to claim three wickets, including the prized scalp of Marcus Stoinis. Sundar’s spell dismantled Australia’s middle order, leaving them reeling. From a comfortable 68/1 in the ninth over, Australia collapsed spectacularly, losing eight wickets for just 51 runs to be bowled out for 119.
For his all-round brilliance, Axar Patel was named Player of the Match.
“It wasn’t an easy wicket to bat on. I just focused on adapting to the team’s needs and bowled according to plan,” said Axar.
Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav praised his team’s effort and balance:
“Despite the dew, our bowlers did a fantastic job. I feel blessed with the bowling options we have—everyone stepped up when it mattered most.”
Australian captain Mitchell Marsh admitted his side fell short on partnerships, noting,
“India are a world-class team. We probably had a par total to chase but couldn’t build partnerships.”
With this win, India now lead the series 2–1, ensuring they cannot lose it. The fifth and final T20I will be played at The Gabba, Brisbane, on Saturday, November 8, starting at 1:45 pm IST (8:15 am GMT).—
Discussion about this post