India registered a second consecutive victory in the ongoing T20I series against Australia, defending 167 in the Gold Coast to win by 48 runs in a dominant performance to take a 2-1 lead.
There were no particular stand out performers for the visitors in this win but it was rather a collective effort across all departments, something which made skipper Suryakumar Yadav proud.
Speaking in the post-match presentation, Surya was full of praise for how multiple members of the team rose to the occasion under difficult circumstances.
“I feel credit goes to all the batters. The way Abhishek (Sharma) and Shubman (Gill) started, they knew it was not a regular wicket where you can get 200-220,” the captain said.
Abhishek Sharma didn’t get off to his usual blazing start, but still scored 28 off 21 balls en route to a 56-run opening stand with Shubman Gill, who ended up as the top scorer with 46 off 39 balls.
Batting at No. 3, Shivam Dube contributed 22 while Suryakumar himself chipped in with a quickfire 20(10). Axar Patel wrapped things up with 21*(11) to propel India to 167/8 in 20 overs, just about par score to defend on the massive outfield of Carrara.
In reply, Australia got off to a rapid start but India’s bowlers applied the pressure in the middle overs, with contributions from every bowler ensuring the hosts lost their way. Washington Sundar picked two wickets while Axar and Dube returned with two prized scalps each.
Reflecting on the bowling effort, Surya said: “Everyone came in and chipped in to the effort. I think the message was quite clear from outside, me and Gauti bhai were saying the same thing. There was a little bit of dew but they adapted quickly, and the way they bowled was amazing.”
“It’s always good to have bowlers who can give you 2-3 overs and some days 4 overs. Some days Shivam will, some days Washi will, this combination suits us well. Everyone chipping in, raising their hand, and bailing the side out, that’s what we want from them,” the Indian captain concluded.
The fifth and final T20I of the series will be played at Gabba, Brisbane on Saturday (November 8).
