2nd T20I: India Shows Strength and Composure, Dominates Australia
India continued their dominance over Australia with a comprehensive 44-run victory in the second T20I in Thiruvananthapuram. The hosts were powered by a blazing half-century from Ruturaj Gaikwad (58 off 43 balls) and useful contributions from Yashasvi Jaiswal (53 off 25 balls) and Ishan Kishan (52 off 32 balls).
Batting first, India put on a rapid-fire 235/4, their highest-ever T20I score against Australia. The hosts got off to a flying start with Jaiswal and Gaikwad putting on a 54-run opening partnership. Jaiswal continued his attacking form, smashing a quick-fire fifty, while Gaikwad provided stability with a solid half-century of his own.
Kishan then took over the mantle, smashing a quickfire half-century to help India reach a commanding total. The left-hander was particularly severe on Maxwell, who conceded 38 runs in his two overs.
In reply, Australia were off to a decent start, with Tim David (37 off 22 balls) and Marcus Stoinis (45 off 25 balls) putting on an 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket. However, Ravi Bishnoi (3/32) dismissed David in his final over to dash Australia’s hopes of a comeback. Stoinis followed soon after, and Australia could only manage 191/9 in their 20 overs.
With this win, India took a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. The third T20I will be played in Hyderabad on Wednesday.
Key takeaways:
- India’s batting was outstanding, with four half-centuries in their innings.
- The Indian spinners, Ravi Bishnoi and Axar Patel, were again impressive, taking three wickets each.
- Australia’s batting lineup failed to fire, with only two batsmen making significant contributions.