India secured a commanding 48-run victory over Australia in the fourth T20I at Carrara Oval, Canberra, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. On a tricky batting night, India’s bowlers led the charge, with Washington Sundar claiming three key wickets to seal a comfortable win.
Batting first, India got off to a strong start thanks to openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma. The pair looked in fine touch during the powerplay, but momentum dipped after Abhishek’s dismissal for 28. Gill held the innings together with a steady 46 off 39 balls, while Axar Patel provided a late flourish, finishing unbeaten on 21 off 11 balls. India posted a competitive total of 167.
Chasing 168, Australia started positively, with Mitchell Marsh and Matthew Short putting on 37 runs for the first wicket. However, once Short was dismissed, Australia’s innings quickly fell apart. Axar Patel struck twice in quick succession, triggering a collapse, while Shivam Dube and Washington Sundar ensured the hosts could not recover, eventually falling 48 runs short.
The win gives India a 2-1 series lead and momentum going into the remaining matches. However, concerns remain over Shubman Gill’s scoring rate in the middle overs, a critical aspect as India pursue their aggressive T20 strategy.
