As a sort of “revenge” for losing to Australia in the 50-over Cricket World Cup final, India won the T20 series against them with one match remaining after defeating them by 20 runs in Raipur. Despite failing to take full advantage of the final overs, India managed to post 174-9 when batting in the penultimate series match on Friday. Rinku Singh (46), Jitesh Sharma (35), and others all performed admirably.
Earlier, Yashasvi Jaiswal (37) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (32) combined for a breezy 50-run opening stand before the home side lost three quick wickets, including that of captain Suryakumar Yadav. Rinku and Jitesh shored up India, and at 129-4 after 15 overs, the home side looked poised for a late flourish that could take them near the 200-mark.
However, Australia pulled things back in the final five overs, conceding only 45 runs and claiming five wickets. Eventually, when they returned to defend, Axar Patel (3-16) destroyed Australia’s top order, and the tourists managed to reach 154-7.
After Australia started chasing, Axar Patel chose to redeem himself with the ball after falling for a first-ball duck. The left-arm spinner removed opener Travis Head (31) and number four Aaron Hardie in consecutive overs, then removed Ben McDermott in his final over to reduce Australia to 87-4 in the 12th over. Even though Matthew Wade scored an undefeated 36 off of 23 balls, it was ultimately insufficient as India seal the series.
