India leveled the T20I series against Australia at 1-1 with a five-wicket victory in the third match at Hobart on Sunday. Chasing a target of 187, India navigated a strong counter-attack from the hosts thanks to an unbeaten innings from Washington Sundar. Earlier, despite a good start by the Indian bowling attack, Australia posted 186 for six, fueled by Tim David and Marcus Stoinis. The win was orchestrated by India’s three inclusions for the match: Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, and Jitesh Sharma.
Arshdeep Singh, who earned the Player of the Match award for his figures of 3 for 35, struck twice in the Powerplay, removing the dangerous Travis Head and Josh Inglis to leave Australia reeling at 14 for two. However, Australia's middle order launched a brutal counter-punch. Tim David bludgeoned the Indian bowlers for 74 off just 38 balls, and was ably supported by Marcus Stoinis, who hit 64 off 39.
Varun Chakravarthy also chipped in with two key wickets, including bowling Mitchell Owen through the gate with a peach of a delivery.
The chase saw India's top order get starts but fail to convert. Abhishek Sharma, 25, Shubman Gill, 15, and skipper Suryakumar Yadav, 24, all looked promising before falling to the Australian attack, led by Nathan Ellis, 3/36. India lost four wickets for 111, leaving the target steep at 76 from 53 balls.
Washington Sundar, selected as a specialist batsman after not bowling a ball despite his all-rounder status, walked in at number six and immediately took the offensive. He smashed a racing 49 not out off just 23 balls, finding the boundary with clean, conventional striking, including four sixes, to keep the run rate under control.
Jitesh Sharma, playing his first T20I in over 18 months, played an important cameo as well. Scoring 22 not out off 13 balls, and alongside Washington, ensuring there were no further blemishes, finishing the chase with an unbroken 43-run stand and nine balls to spare.
Australian captain Mitchell Marsh's bowling changes failed to quell Washington's assault, with the 19-run 14th over by Sean Abbott proving to be the turning point into India's chase.
Washington, showed composure and versatility, proving he can command a spot in the side as a finisher. Arshdeep, speaking after the match, credited the team environment: “I’ve just been working on my process, trusting my skills, and executing the plans I’ve practised. It feels great to contribute when I get the chance.”
