HOBART: India registered a commanding five-wicket victory over Australia in the third T20 International at the Ninja Oval in Hobart on Sunday, successfully chasing down a challenging target of 187 runs to level the five-match series 1-1.
The victory was spearheaded by a brilliant all-round performance from Washington Sundar and a spectacular opening spell from pacer Arshdeep Singh.
Chasing 187, India’s batsmen maintained a healthy run rate despite losing wickets at regular intervals. Contributions came from Abhishek Sharma (25 off 16 balls), captain Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 11 balls), and Tilak Varma (29 off 26 balls). However, it was Sundar’s stunning unbeaten knock of 49 runs off just 23 balls that sealed the deal, with India crossing the finish line with nine balls to spare. Debutant Jitesh Sharma (22* off 12 balls) provided crucial support at the end.
Earlier, Australia, batting first, posted a competitive total of 186 for six, primarily powered by a magnificent innings from Tim David (74 off 38 balls), who was well-supported by Marcus Stoinis (64 off 39 balls).
However, Australia’s momentum was initially stalled by the Player of the Match, Arshdeep Singh, who made an immediate impact upon his return to the side, claiming the early wickets of dangerous batsmen Travis Head and Josh Inglis. His disciplined bowling ensured Australia’s blistering start did not run away with the game.
This victory marks the first-ever T20I loss for Australia at the venue and sets up an intriguing remainder of the series. The fourth T20 is scheduled for November 6 in Gold Coast.
