Australia Levels T20 Series with Victory Over India
Put in to bat first, India struggled against Australia’s fast bowlers and were dismissed for 125 runs in 18.4 overs. Josh Hazlewood starred with an impressive spell of 3-13, while Mitchell Marsh contributed a quick 46 as Australia won by four wickets in the second Twenty20 international at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday.
India’s Batting Collapse
Hazlewood’s early wickets left India on the back foot. Only Abhishek Sharma (68) and Harshit Rana (35) reached double figures, as the rest of the batting lineup faltered.
Strong Australian Chase
Australia started their chase well with an opening partnership of 51 runs between Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head, who scored 28 off 15 balls. Marsh’s 46 runs from 26 deliveries ensured the hosts reached the target comfortably, finishing with 40 balls remaining.
“It was a good toss to win — a bit of moisture and Josh is a great bowler when there’s something in it,” said Marsh. “I was a bit nervous but got going in the end. Head took the pressure off.”
Supporting Performances and Series Context
Along with Hazlewood’s three wickets, Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis took two wickets each, helping Australia take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after the first game in Canberra was abandoned due to rain.
The third match will be played in Hobart on Sunday.
India Captain Reflects on the Defeat
India captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted the early loss of wickets made the chase difficult: “If you’re four down in the powerplay, it’s difficult to recover from that. Abhishek played really well and has been consistent — we just need to bat better at the start.”
Summary: Australia’s disciplined bowling and solid batting, led by Hazlewood and Marsh, helped them overcome India and equalize the T20 series.