Arshdeep Singh's incisive new-ball burst and ice-cool execution at the death paved the way for India’s five-wicket victory over Australia in the third T20I of the five-match series at Bellerive Oval, Hobart on Sunday (November 2).

The left-arm quick, who returned to the playing XI after being benched for first two T20Is, returned with the figures of 3 for 35 in 4 overs. His spell was vital in helping the visitors restrict Australia to 186/6 in 20 overs.

Chasing the target, the Men in Blue got over the line in 18.3 overs, with notable contributions from Washington Sundar (49* off 23), Jitesh Sharma (22* off 13), Abhishek Sharma (25 off 16) and skipper Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 11).

After earning the Player-of-the-Match award, Arshdeep said he has been focusing on clarity and consistency rather than trying too hard for results.

“I’ve just been working on my process, trusting my skills, and executing the plans I’ve practised. It feels great to contribute when I get the chance,” Arshdeep said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

The 26-year-old also explained how bowling in tandem with Jasprit Bumrah gives him more wicket-taking chances.

“Yes (enjoying bowling to aggressive batters), definitely. When someone is coming hard at you, there’s always a chance to pick up wickets. And when someone like Bumrah is bowling from the other end, batters often take more risks against me, that gives me wicket-taking opportunities,” Arshdeep stated.

“I just try to enjoy my bowling and keep my plans simple. No matter the situation - powerplay or death - I just focus on execution and stick to what I’ve practiced,” he further remarked.

The series is now evenly poised at 1-1 with two matches still to be played. The penultimate T20I will be held at Gold Coast in Bill Pippen Oval on November 6, while the series finale will take place in Brisbane on November 8.