Australia clinched a dominant four-wicket victory over India in the second T20 International at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, with Josh Hazlewood producing a masterclass in seam bowling to dismantle India’s top order.
Before a crowd of over 82,000, India were bowled out for 125 in 18.4 overs, suffering one of their biggest T20I defeats. Hazlewood’s fiery spell of 3 for 13 in 4 overs — featuring 15 dot balls — set the tone early, as India’s batting lineup collapsed under the bounce and movement on offer.
Hazlewood Leads Australia’s Charge
Operating with precision and control, Hazlewood removed Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma in a devastating opening burst. His accuracy left India reeling at 49 for 5, effectively sealing the game within the first 20 minutes.
Despite the carnage, Abhishek Sharma stood tall with a stunning 68 off 37 balls, laced with 8 fours and 2 sixes. Showing composure and fearless stroke play, the left-hander added 56 runs for the sixth wicket with Harshit Rana (35 off 33), rescuing India from total collapse.
Australia Cruise to Victory
In response, Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh (46 off 26) and Travis Head (28 off 15) gave the hosts a blistering start. Though India’s bowlers — led by Varun Chakaravarthy (2/23) and Jasprit Bumrah (2/26) — picked up a few late wickets, the target was too small to defend.
Australia reached 126/6 in just 13.2 overs, sealing the win comfortably and leveling the series.
Player of the Match: Josh Hazlewood
“The ball feels like it’s coming out nicely at the moment, no matter what format I’m playing,” Hazlewood said after being named Player of the Match.
“Everything feels in a good place and ready to go for the summer.”
What They Said
Mitchell Marsh (Australia captain):
“It was a good toss to win. There was a bit of moisture early on, and Hoff (Hazlewood) bowled brilliantly. We’ve built a squad of 25 players who can step up anytime.”
Suryakumar Yadav (India captain):
“We were four down in the powerplay, and it’s tough to recover from that. We need to bat well when batting first and then come out and defend strongly.”
Quick Stats
- India’s lowest T20I totals vs Australia: 74 (2014), 125 (2025)
- India’s biggest T20I defeats (by balls to spare):
- 52 (vs AUS, 2008)
- 41 (vs AUS, 2025)
- Abhishek Sharma’s 68: Fastest fifty by an Indian at the MCG (23 balls)
- Mitchell Marsh: Crossed 2000 T20I runs, second Australian after David Warner
Summary
| Team | Score | Overs | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 125 all out | 18.4 | Abhishek 68 (37), Hazlewood 3/13 |
| Australia | 126/6 | 13.2 | Marsh 46 (26), Bumrah 2/26 |