India took on Australia in the first T20I of the three-match series at Mohali on Tuesday and it didn’t turn out to be a happy outing for the hosts as they lost the match, despite posting a high total of 208.
Their death bowling got exposed once again as the Australian duo of Matthew Wade and Tim David ran away with the game in the final four overs of the match.
KL Rahul Seen in Top Gear after a Long Time
India opener KL Rahul was back at his best on Tuesday. He was seen unleashing a series of flick shots, resembling almost a whiplash, on the leg side during his 35-ball knock of 55 and each of those shots went for huge sixes. His innings consisted of four fours and three sixes, and it came to an end when he failed to time a delivery from Nathan Ellis properly. Rahul was ultimately dismissed caught at deep Square leg by Josh Hazlewood.
Hardik Pandya Shows Why He Is India’s Real MVP
All-rounder Hardik Pandya carried his rich vein of form forward as he played a breathtaking knock of an unbeaten 71 off just 30 deliveries to propel India to a huge total of 208. Pandya walked in to bat at No.5 and smashed seven fours and five sixes during his knock. Unfortunately, his effort went in vain as India still went on to lose the match.
Cameron Green Fires at the Top of the Order
Young batting all-rounder Cameron Green played a magnificent knock on being promoted to the top of the order. Green smashed 61 off just 30 deliveries while opening the batting for Australia for the first time in T20Is. His knock consisted of eight fours and four sixes and laid the foundation for the huge chase.
Matthew Wade Brings His Finishing Skills to the Fore Once Again
Australia had lost four quick wickets in the space of just 36 runs when Wade walked in to bat at No.7. India were in the driving seat in that situation but the southpaw showed his skills once again as he smashed an unbeaten 45 off just 21 deliveries to take Australia home.
What’s in Store for the Second T20i?
The two teams will now travel to Nagpur for the second match of the series. India will be looking to bounce back with a strong show here. Jasprit Bumrah is expected to make a return in this match and he will strengthen India’s bowling attack immensely.
