Hobart: Washington Sundar solidified his status as a T20 hitter, leading India to a decisive five-wicket victory over Australia as they chased down a target of 187 with ease. This match marked the first time Australia has lost a T20 International at the Ninja Oval, previously known as Bellerive Oval. Tim David scored 74 runs off 38 balls, propelling Australia to a total of 186 for six after they chose to bat first. Given India’s batting strength, they were anticipated to meet the target, although Nathan Ellis (3/36) posed challenges with his effective bowling. India ultimately achieved the target in 18.3 overs.
Abhishek Sharma contributed 25 runs off 16 balls, while skipper Suryakumar Yadav added 24 off 11, and Tilak Varma scored 29 off 26. Washington remained unbeaten with 49 runs off 23 balls. The fourth T20 in the five-match series is set to take place in Gold Coast on November 6. Opting to bowl in brisk conditions, India started strong with Arshdeep Singh, who made an impactful return to the team by taking two wickets in a two-over spell, earning him the Player of The Match title. As India’s leading wicket-taker in the format, he dismissed the formidable Travis Head and Josh Inglis, leaving Australia at 14 for two. Arshdeep and Bumrah effectively closed out the innings for the visitors.
(PTI) Brief Scores: Australia 186/6 in 20 overs (Tim David 74, Marcus Stoinis 64; Arshdeep Singh 3-35, Varun Chakaravarthy 2-33) lost to India 188/5 in 18.3 overs (Washington Sundar 49 not out, Tilak Varma 29; Nathan Ellis 3-36, Marcus Stoinis 1-22) by five wickets.