Hobart, Nov 2: Washington Sundar solidified his reputation as a formidable T20 hitter, leading India to a decisive five-wicket victory over Australia by chasing down a target of 187. This match marked the first time Australia has lost a T20 International at the Ninja Oval, previously known as Bellerive Oval.
Australia, opting to bat first, posted a total of 186 for six, largely thanks to Tim David, who scored 74 runs off 38 balls. India’s bowling attack faced challenges, but Nathan Ellis stood out with his impressive figures of 3 for 36, making the chase slightly tougher for India. However, the visitors comfortably finished the innings in 18.3 overs.
Abhishek Sharma began the Indian innings with a rapid 25 off 16 balls, setting a brisk tempo. Captain Suryakumar Yadav contributed 24 runs off 11 balls, while Tilak Varma and Axar Patel added valuable runs with 29 and 17, respectively. The highlight was Washington Sundar’s explosive 49 not out off just 23 deliveries. Jitesh Sharma, playing his first match of the series, supported Sundar with a crucial 22 not out.
Sundar showcased his underrated power-hitting abilities, predominantly targeting the cow corner area for his sixes. The absence of Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, who is now focused on the upcoming Ashes, made India’s task easier. Besides Ellis, the Australian bowlers struggled to create pressure on the Indian batsmen.
The fourth T20 of the five-match series is set to take place in Gold Coast on November 6. India started strong in bowling, with Arshdeep Singh, returning to the squad, claiming two wickets in a two-over spell. His outstanding performance earned him the Player of the Match award. Arshdeep dismissed the dangerous Travis Head and Josh Inglis, leaving Australia in a precarious position at 14 for two.
Despite India’s early advantage, Tim David countered with aggressive batting, targeting every bowler systematically. He hit four of his five sixes straight down the ground, including a remarkable shot over cover off Axar Patel. Following David’s dismissal, Marcus Stoinis scored a solid 64 off 39 balls, guiding Australia to a competitive total.
David escaped an early dismissal when Washington Sundar dropped a straightforward catch off Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling. India’s lineup missed injured all-rounder Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube took significant punishment from both David and Stoinis.
After Arshdeep’s impactful start, Varun Chakaravarthy curtailed the scoring rate by dismissing Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Owen in successive deliveries. With both Arshdeep and Bumrah sealing the innings effectively, India’s convincing win leveled the series and sent a clear message for the upcoming matches. The blend of youth and experience shone brightly, marked by Sundar’s sensible batting and Arshdeep’s early breakthroughs.
As the team travels to Gold Coast for the next T20I, Suryakumar Yadav’s side aims to leverage this momentum to secure a decisive advantage in the series.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/11/03/washington-stars-in-indias-series-levelling-win-against-australia/
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Publish Date: 2025-11-03 06:52:00
