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A clinical performance from India saw them take a leading edge in the five-match T20I series against Australia, going 2-1 ahead in the series. On a surface where batting wasn't easy, India posted a competitive total before their bowlers stepped up brilliantly to defend it. All six Indian bowlers contributed by picking up at least one wicket, ensuring the team stayed on top throughout the Australian chase. With just one game remaining, India have now placed themselves in a position where they cannot lose the series. 

 

Batting first, India managed a modest 167/8 after losing yet another toss. Australia, who made four changes to their playing XI, started well with the ball as India’s openers found it tough to accelerate early on. Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill put up 49 runs in the PowerPlay, with Abhishek batting on 22 off 18 balls before attempting to attack Adam Zampa.

 

He struck a six off the leg-spinner but was dismissed two balls later. Shivam Dube, promoted up the order, struggled initially before launching a massive six to get going. Gill, on the other hand, was steady but slow, scoring 34 off 30 at one point, which put pressure on the scoring rate. 

 

Suryakumar Yadav came with intent as he hit back-to-back sixes and very soon Gill joined the party with one over the ropes. However, Australia's bowlers made a strong comeback in the final overs.

 

Nathan Ellis removed Gill with a brilliant slower delivery and Suryakumar followed suit very soon. Zampa struck twice in one over to remove Tilak Varma and Jitesh Sharma to dent India's hopes of a big finish. A quick cameo from Axar Patel helped India cross 160, which proved enough eventually. 

 

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India’s Bowlers Shine as Australia Fall Short in the Chase

 

Chasing 168, Australia had a slow start as it managed just 11 runs in the first two overs. Matthew Short briefly counterattacked but fell after a successful review to Axar Patel. Josh Inglis hit a few boundaries, but he, too, was soon bowled by Axar. Shivam Dube and Varun Chakaravarthy then combined to dismiss Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell. Arshdeep Singh and Washington Sundar cleaned up the tail, and India bowled Australia out comfortably.

 

In the end, it was an all-round performance from India that underlined their increasing confidence and depth. Each of the bowlers chipped in, while the fielding remained razor-sharp throughout. With a 2-1 lead in the series, momentum will firmly rest with India when they play the next game.

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