The Australia men’s national cricket team claimed a dominant four-wicket victory over the India men’s national cricket team in the second T20 international at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Australia chased down a modest 126, completing the target in just 13.2 overs, powered by a striking 46 off 26 balls from Mitchell Marsh and a devastating bowling spell of 3 for 13 from Josh Hazlewood.
India elected to bat first but crumbled under pressure, being bowled out for 125 in 18.4 overs. The top order collapsed quickly, and though 17-year-old Abhishek Sharma fought valiantly with 68 off 37, there was too little support to build a competitive total. Hazlewood set the tone early, exploiting the MCG’s extra bounce and maintaining perfect line and length to trap India at 49 for 5 before lunch. Additional wickets from Nathan Ellis and the Australian attack sealed India’s frustration.
In response, Australia’s chase was controlled and ruthless. Marsh led the charge, dispatching four sixes and two fours as he anchored the innings. His opening stand with Travis Head (who made 28) laid a platform, and the rest of the chase was a matter of cruise control. Despite losing wickets in the middle, Australia never looked in danger, wrapping up the target with 40 balls to spare in front of a sold-out crowd.
The result highlights Australia’s strength in all departments — a ruthless bowling display followed by aggressive batting. For India, the batting collapse raises serious concerns ahead of the rest of the series and the upcoming T20 World Cup in home conditions. The Australians, meanwhile, will take confidence from the performance, especially in a high-stakes home environment and with the Ashes Tests looming in months ahead.
This win reaffirms that in T20 cricket, small margins and strong execution dominate. Australia capitalised perfectly.
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