Hazlewood and Marsh Dominate as Australia Beat India at MCG
Josh Hazlewood delivered a brilliant bowling spell that led Australia to a commanding four-wicket victory over India in their Twenty20 clash at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, witnessed by 82,438 spectators.
India were dismissed for 125 in 18.4 overs before Australia chased down the total in just 13.2 overs, finishing at 6-126 with 40 balls remaining. The result gave Australia a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after the first game in Canberra was abandoned due to rain.
Hazlewood’s Impact
Hazlewood stunned the mostly Indian crowd early after captain Mitch Marsh won the toss and opted to bowl first. His disciplined pace attack dismantled India’s top order, setting a dominant tone for the innings.
Marsh and Head Lead the Chase
Openers Mitch Marsh (46) and Travis Head (28) aggressively pursued the modest target. Marsh continued his fine limited-overs form, striking multiple sixes including one of the largest seen at the MCG, launching Harshit Rana’s delivery into the second tier of the Olympic Stand.
"Marsh, who has been in scintillating white-ball form, smashed one of the biggest ever sixes at the MCG when he blasted Harshit Rana into the second level of the Olympic Stand."
Marsh was eventually caught at long off after attempting another big shot, leaving Australia 39 runs from victory. Despite losing 4-39 in quick succession—including a hat-trick bid from Jasprit Bumrah—the home side comfortably secured the win.
Series Status
Australia’s emphatic performance places them ahead 1-0 in the five-match T20 series, gaining strong momentum as the contest moves forward.
Author’s Summary: Australia dominated India at the MCG as Hazlewood’s lethal bowling and Marsh’s explosive batting powered an easy chase, giving the hosts an early series lead.