HOBART, Australia, 2 November (H.S.): India defeated Australia by five wickets in a thrilling third T20 International on Sunday at Bellerive Oval, leveling the five-match series at 1-1. An explosive unbeaten knock from Washington Sundar guided the Indian team to victory with nine balls to spare as they successfully chased down Australia's total of 186.

Chasing 187 for the win, India stumbled early in their run chase.Abhishek Sharma departed for 25, followed by Shubman Gill (15) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (24). Tilak Varma (29) and Axar Patel (17) steadied the innings, but their dismissals put the pressure back on the visitors. It was the unbeaten 43-run partnership between Washington Sundar and Jitesh Sharma that ultimately carried India over the line. Sundar played a spectacular innings, smashing an unbeaten 49 from just 23 balls, including three fours and four sixes.

Jitesh supported him well, remaining not out on 22 from 13 balls. For Australia, Nathan Ellis was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets.Earlier, after being put in to bat by India, Australia posted a competitive total of 186 for 6. The hosts had a shaky start, losing Travis Head (6) and Josh Inglis (1) within the first three overs.

A brilliant counter-attack from Tim David, who scored 74 off 38 balls with eight fours and five sixes, brought Australia back into the game. Marcus Stoinis continued the assault with a powerful 64 from 39 deliveries, partnering with Matthew Short (26 not out) for a crucial 64-run stand for the sixth wicket.

Arshdeep Singh was India’s most successful bowler, finishing with three wickets. Varun Chakravarthy claimed two wickets, while Shivam Dube took one. The first match of the series was washed out, and Australia secured a win in the second T20I, setting the stage for an exciting remainder of the series.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar