In a high-octane clash at Melbourne, Australia staged a remarkable comeback to defeat India by 3 wickets in the third match of the T20 series, keeping the series alive though India still lead 2-1.
Batting first, India got off to a flying start thanks to Rohit Sharma’s 32 off 15 and Shubman Gill’s quickfire 24 off 12, racing to 52 within the first four overs. However, a stunning bowling display by Adam Zampa (5/16 in 2 overs) turned the game on its head. The leg-spinner ripped through India’s middle order, triggering a collapse that saw the visitors bundle out for 110 in just 9.4 overs. Cameron Green supported well with 2 crucial wickets, while none of the Indian batters apart from Rohit, Gill, and Samson could withstand the Aussie attack.
Chasing 111, Australia found themselves in early trouble at 52/5, with Hardik Pandya (2/22) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2/14) striking in quick succession. But Marcus Harris (29 off 14) provided early momentum before Josh Inglis (23 off 9)* and Mitchell Starc (16 off 4)* held their nerve in the final overs to steer Australia home with four balls to spare.
Zampa’s match-winning spell earned him the Player of the Match award, and his efforts ensured Australia stay in contention as the series now stands at India 2 – Australia 1 with two matches remaining.