India defeated Australia by 48 runs in the fourth T20I, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series held in Queensland on Thursday.
Asked to bat first, India posted a total of 167/8. Captain Shubman Gill led the way with a top score of 46. Key contributions came from Abhishek Sharma (28), Shivam Dube (22), and Suryakumar Yadav (20).
In reply, Australia were bowled out for 119 runs in the penultimate over. Mitchell Marsh was their highest scorer with a 30 from 24 balls.
The pitch appeared a bit slow but offered opportunities to score. India’s spin trio—Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar—played a vital role in restricting Australia, leveraging the long boundaries and rough surface conditions.
Arshdeep Singh opened the bowling for India, targeting the Australian openers Matthew Short and Mitchell Marsh. The Indian bowlers had the tools to contain Australia's strong batting lineup despite their firepower.
"The Indian spin trio of Varun Chakaravarthy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar will be crucial in containing the Aussie batting unit, with the long boundaries and the ball gripping into the surface playing to their advantage."
The stage was set for a thrilling contest, with India's all-round performance, especially by Axar Patel, securing a convincing win.
Axar Patel's impressive all-round display helped India claim a convincing 48-run victory over Australia, gaining a crucial series lead in the fourth T20I.