BENGALURU: In a nail-biting encounter, India defeated Australia in the fifth Twenty20 cricket international, securing a thrilling six-run win and claiming the series 4-1. Pacers Mukesh Kumar and Arshdeep Singh played pivotal roles, taking five wickets collectively, as India defended a total of 160-8 against Australia’s chase of 154-8.
Mukesh Kumar’s stellar performance saw him clinch three crucial wickets, while Arshdeep Singh, despite an initially expensive spell, delivered a fine last over, conceding only three runs and ensuring India’s triumph.
The Indian innings, marked by the refined fifty from vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, saw the team reach a competitive score. Iyer’s 53 off 37 balls, combined with a resilient effort from Axar Patel, contributed to India’s total on a challenging pitch at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Australia Batting Against India
In response, Travis Head and Josh Phillippe provided an explosive start to Australia’s 161-run chase. However, Mukesh Kumar swiftly broke the opening partnership, dismissing Phillippe and setting the tone for India’s bowling dominance.
Ben McDermott’s aggressive half-century, scoring 54 off 36 balls, almost trumped Iyer’s efforts. Still, the Australian innings faltered in the final overs as the Indian bowlers, led by Arshdeep Singh and Mukesh Kumar, held their nerve under pressure.
Despite McDermott’s powerful display, Arshdeep Singh had the last laugh, dismissing him near mid-off, and Axar Patel’s spin prowess further contributed to India’s victory. The match came down to the wire, with Australia needing 10 runs off the last over. Arshdeep Singh’s composed performance ensured India sealed the series with a six-run win.
Mukesh Kumar’s game-changing 17th over, where he took two consecutive wickets and conceded only five runs, proved crucial in the face of a challenging target for Australia.
