Australia secured a four-wicket victory over India in the second T20I at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on October 31, 2025. The match was marked by an intriguing mini-battle between Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and Australian middle-order batter Tim David.
Put in to bat on a pitch that favored pacers, India managed 125 runs in 18.4 overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma played aggressively, scoring 68 runs off just 37 balls. Despite his effort, the rest of the lineup struggled to capitalize. Josh Hazlewood led Australia’s bowling attack with three wickets.
Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head gave Australia a fast start, adding 51 runs in 27 balls for the opening partnership. Chakaravarthy dismissed Head for 28, while Marsh contributed 46 off 26 before falling to Kuldeep Yadav.
When Tim David came to bat, India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy engaged in strategic mind games. Tilak Varma was placed at short leg, provoking a smile from David. The Australian batter stepped away once as Chakaravarthy delayed his run-up, building tension.
“He managed just one run before attempting a defensive shot that bounced slightly higher, resulting in a simple return catch to the bowler.”
The contest between the two drew attention for its intensity and psychological edge, showcasing how tactics can influence even brief duels on the field.
Author’s Summary: In a tense second T20I, Australia triumphed as Varun Chakaravarthy’s crafty tactics outwitted Tim David, making the duel one of the game’s defining moments.