Australia made light work of India’s modest total in the second T20I at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, sealing a comfortable win and leveling the series in style. The Aussies chased down India’s 125-run target with ease, powered by dominant top-order batting and an all-round bowling performance that left the visitors struggling from the start.
India’s innings never found rhythm after being asked to bat first by Australia captain Mitchell Marsh. The top order collapsed dramatically, losing five wickets within the first eight overs. Australia’s pace spearhead Josh Hazlewood was virtually unplayable in his opening spell, dismantling India’s core by removing Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma in quick succession.
The lone resistance came from Abhishek Sharma, who struck a valiant 68, displaying composure amid the chaos. He found brief support from Harshit Rana, whose counter-attacking 35 from No. 7 helped India cross the 120-mark before being bowled out for 125 in 18.4 overs.
In response, Australia’s batsmen came out firing. Their aggressive intent turned the chase into a mere formality as they dominated India's bowling attack from the outset. Boundaries flowed freely, with the hosts “smashing Indian bowlers for fun,” as the crowd roared in approval.
For India, it was a night to forget — poor shot selection, a lack of partnerships, and ineffective bowling combined to hand Australia an easy win.
As the series moves forward, India will need to regroup quickly, address their middle-order fragility, and rediscover their bowling rhythm if they hope to bounce back in the remaining matches.
TCR Arena Verdict:
Australia outplayed India in every department at the MCG. Hazlewood’s precision and Abhishek Sharma’s lone fight were the only highlights on a tough day for the Men in Blue.
