India’s winning streak remained unbroken as they triumphed over Australia by 44 runs in the second T20I held in Thiruvananthapuram, solidifying their lead to 2-0 in the five-match series. Opting to bat first, India set an imposing total of 235/4. The dynamic opening duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad laid a strong foundation, contributing 77 runs for the first wicket in just 5.5 overs before Jaiswal departed after a brisk 25-ball 53. Ishan Kishan then partnered with Gaikwad to propel India beyond the 100-run mark at the midway point. Kishan shifted gears, reaching his half-century in 29 balls, only to be dismissed by Marcus Stoinis for a well-played 52 off 32 balls.
Gaikwad, too, completed his half-century before exiting in the final over with a commendable 58 off 43 balls. Rinku Singh added an unbeaten 31 runs in just 9 deliveries to bolster India’s innings. In response, Australia faced a slow start as Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel struck early, taking three wickets within the powerplay. Bishnoi removed Matthew Short and Josh Inglis consecutively, while Axar dismissed the formidable Glenn Maxwell for 12 off 8 balls in the final powerplay delivery. Prasidh Krishna further dented Australia’s hopes by dismissing Steve Smith for 19 off 16 balls.
Despite the setbacks, Marcus Stoinis and Tim David rallied for Australia, forming an 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Bishnoi, however, broke this crucial stand by dismissing David for 37 off 22 balls, and shortly after, Mukesh Kumar removed Stoinis for 45 off 25 balls. Australia’s momentum waned, leading to quick wicket losses. Matthew Wade displayed some powerful strokes towards the end, but it proved insufficient to secure victory for Australia. Bishnoi and Prasidh Krishna stood out with three wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel, and Mukesh Kumar contributed with one wicket each in India’s comprehensive triumph.
