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India Clinches T20I Series Against Australia with Clinical Bowling Performance
NEW DELHI: India has taken an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-match T20 International series against Australia, securing a convincing 48-run victory in the fourth encounter at Carrara Oval, Queensland. Defending a modest total, India’s bowlers delivered a stifling performance on Thursday, showcasing composure and balance under Captain Suryakumar Yadav.
This impressive win highlights India’s growing depth and strategic prowess, especially in challenging conditions. The series victory marks another significant milestone for the Men in Blue.
India’s Bowling Masterclass: Axar, Dube & Sundar Shine
After setting a target of 168 runs on a challenging surface, India’s bowling unit rose to the occasion with an exceptional display. Washington Sundar spearheaded the attack in the death overs, while Axar Patel and Shivam Dube masterfully controlled the middle overs, keeping Australia’s chase in check.
Axar and Dube Trigger Australian Collapse
Australia began their chase briskly, racing to 37 runs inside five overs. However, the game turned when Axar Patel provided the crucial breakthrough, trapping Matthew Short (25 off 19) and opening the floodgates for India.
Following Axar’s lead, Shivam Dube delivered a double-strike, removing key batters Mitchell Marsh (30 off 24) and Tim David (14 off 9) in consecutive overs. This flurry of wickets saw Australia’s innings crumble under scoreboard pressure, slipping from 91/4.
Axar, who was named Player of the Match, attributed his success to adapting to the conditions. “The wicket was a bit slower, and there was unexpected bounce,” he commented. “I just held my position and bowled wicket to wicket — that was the key on this surface.”
Sundar Seals the Deal with Dream Spell
With the middle order struggling, Washington Sundar then moved in to mop up the tail. He delivered a dream spell, taking 3 wickets for just 3 runs, effectively sealing India’s comprehensive victory.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav lauded his bowlers’ adaptability. “There was some dew, but the way they bowled was amazing,” he said. “Good to have bowlers who can give you 2-3 overs, and if needed, four overs too.”
Key bowling figures for India:
- Washington Sundar: 3/3
- Axar Patel: 2/20 (Player of the Match)
- Shivam Dube: 2/20
- Varun Chakaravarthy: 1/20
- Arshdeep Singh: 1/28
Australia’s Struggle: Marsh Laments Lack of Partnerships
Australia’s chase of 168 runs eventually folded for 119 in 18.2 overs. Skipper Mitchell Marsh admitted that India’s bowlers had adapted better to the challenging conditions.
“Around 167 was a bit hard on that wicket,” Marsh observed. “The wicket provided a few challenges with the bat. We just needed a couple of partnerships, but we weren’t able to build that.”
Australia’s innings lost crucial momentum after Varun Chakaravarthy shattered Glenn Maxwell’s stumps. Despite a timely wicket from Arshdeep Singh, none of the middle-order batters could stabilise the innings, leaving India firmly in control.
India’s Batting Effort: A Steady Foundation
Earlier, India’s batting performance was steady but lacked explosive momentum. Openers Abhishek Sharma (28 off 21) and Shubman Gill (46 off 39) provided a solid 56-run opening stand.
However, India lost wickets in clusters, stalling their progress. Shivam Dube, promoted to number three to counter Adam Zampa, scored 22 off 18, while Suryakumar Yadav looked dangerous with 20 off 10 before perishing after two quick sixes.
Nathan Ellis (3/21) skillfully used his slower balls to dent India’s middle order, and Zampa claimed three wickets despite conceding 45 runs. Despite losing four wickets for 42 runs in the final five overs, a late cameo from Axar Patel (21* off 11) ensured India finished with a competitive total of 167 for 8.
“Abhishek and Shubman realised it wasn’t a 200-plus wicket. They batted smartly,” Suryakumar said. “The messages from outside were clear — play percentage cricket, take it deep. In the end, our bowlers did exactly what was needed.”
Focus Shifts to Brisbane Finale: India Eyes Unbeaten Record
The series now moves to Brisbane for the final T20I on Saturday. India will be looking to maintain their unbeaten record in T20I series on Australian soil, aiming for a commanding finish.
For Australia, this match offers a chance to restore pride before their World Cup build-up resumes. Marsh hinted at continuity in selection, stating, “Ideally, you’d have your full-strength side every game, but we also like giving guys opportunities leading into the World Cup. High-pressure games like this are great for exposure.”
Conclusion: India’s Depth Shines Through
Thursday’s victory at Carrara Oval was a testament to India’s growing depth, adaptability, and strategic execution. The clinical bowling performance, particularly from Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, and Washington Sundar, underscored their ability to win in varied conditions and defend modest totals. With the series secured, India heads to Brisbane with significant momentum, showcasing their strength as a world-class T20 side.
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