Washington Sundar celebrates his unbeaten 49 as India defeat Australia by 5 wickets in the 3rd T20I at Hobart.*
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🌟 Washington Sundar shines as India level the series 1-1

Washington Sundar played a match-winning hand as India defeated Australia by 5 wickets in the third T20I at Bellerive Oval, Hobart. His unbeaten 49(23)* helped India chase 187 runs in just 18.3 overs, leveling the series 1-1 with confidence and composure.

From the very first over, India looked more determined and organized than in the previous match. Moreover, Sundar’s maturity stood out throughout the chase. His innings contained 3 fours and 4 sixes, proving once again why he is becoming one of India’s most reliable T20 finishers.

In addition, his calm body language during pressure moments kept the dressing room relaxed. Therefore, when India reached the target with nine balls to spare, it felt like the chase had been executed with precision and planning.

💥 Australia’s Innings: Tim David and Stoinis lead the comeback

After winning the toss, Australia opted to bat first. However, their top order struggled as Arshdeep Singh and Bumrah bowled tight lines in the powerplay. Travis Head (6), Josh Inglis (1), and Mitchell Marsh (11) were dismissed early, which left the hosts in deep trouble at 14/2.

Nevertheless, Tim David (74 off 38) and Marcus Stoinis (64 off 39) rebuilt the innings brilliantly. They attacked India’s spinners and middle-overs bowlers, adding over a hundred runs for the fifth wicket. As a result, the Australian innings regained momentum after the initial slump.

Even so, India fought back strongly. Varun Chakaravarthy (2/33) removed both Marsh and Owen in quick succession, while Arshdeep Singh (3/35) kept the end overs in check. Consequently, Australia finished at 186/6, which seemed competitive but not unchaseable on a good batting surface.

🚀 Washington Sundar anchors India’s chase with class

Chasing a target of 187, India began aggressively. Abhishek Sharma (25 off 16) provided a quick start, and Suryakumar Yadav (24 off 11) maintained a strong scoring rate. As a result, India reached 43/0 by the end of the powerplay, setting a solid foundation.

Although wickets fell in clusters, Washington Sundar ensured India never lost control. He rotated the strike smartly, and more importantly, picked the right moments to attack. Furthermore, his ability to adapt quickly against different bowlers stood out.

As the innings progressed, Sundar’s partnership with Jitesh Sharma (22 off 13)* proved decisive. The pair added crucial runs under pressure. Eventually, India reached 188/5 in 18.3 overs, sealing victory comfortably. Consequently, the win restored balance in the five-match series.

🎯 Washington Sundar praises bowlers for setting up the game

After the match, Washington Sundar credited India’s bowlers for creating the platform for victory. According to him, early breakthroughs from Arshdeep Singh (3/35) and disciplined spells by Varun Chakaravarthy (2/33) made all the difference. In addition, Bumrah’s economy (4-0-26-0) kept Australia from accelerating during the final overs.

Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis (3/36) was the standout for Australia. However, the rest of the bowlers struggled with consistency. As a result, India’s batters were able to score freely in the middle overs, turning the match firmly in their favor.

📊 Match Summary

Australia: 186/6 (20 overs)
India: 188/5 (18.3 overs)
Result: India won by 5 wickets
Series: Level 1-1
Player of the Match: Arshdeep Singh 🎯

⭐ Key Performers

India:

  • 🌟 Washington Sundar – 49*(23)
  • 🎯 Arshdeep Singh – 3/35
  • ⚡ Suryakumar Yadav – 24(11)

Australia:

  • 💥 Tim David – 74(38)
  • 🔥 Marcus Stoinis – 64(39)
  • 🎯 Nathan Ellis – 3/36