All-round Axar, spinners give India lead

All-round Axar and Spinners Secure India’s Lead

CHENNAI: On the Carrara pitch in Gold Coast, which India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav described as a sub-continental wicket, Australia won the toss and asked India to bat in the fourth game of the five-match T20I series on Thursday.

India, unchanged from the previous match, posted a total of 167 for 8. Though this score appeared slightly below par at the midpoint, it ultimately proved sufficient as the match progressed.

The pitch, resembling conditions in India, greatly favored the visiting spinners. Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar took six wickets between them, bowling Australia out for 119 in 18.2 overs. India claimed a convincing 48-run victory to take an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series.

The final match will be played in Brisbane on Saturday.

Key Moments of the Match

Axar Patel was brought into the attack in the fifth over with Australia strong at the crease. He immediately made an impact by trapping opener Matthew Short lbw. Although the on-field umpire was uncertain, captain Yadav’s review confirmed the dismissal, granting India the breakthrough.

This wicket reduced Australia’s momentum, limiting them to just 30 runs in the subsequent four overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis attempted to accelerate by advancing down the pitch but was soon bowled through the middle stump.

“The pitch was like a sub-continental wicket,” said captain Suryakumar Yadav ahead of the toss.

India’s spinners dominated the game, ensuring a strong advantage before the series finale.

Author’s Summary

Axar Patel and India’s spin trio controlled the game on familiar conditions, leading to a decisive win and a commanding series lead.

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The New Indian Express The New Indian Express — 2025-11-07

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