Australia Leads 5-Match T20 Series After 4-Wicket Win Over India in Melbourne

Australia secured a dominant four-wicket victory over India in the second T20 International at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, taking a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Josh Hazlewood was instrumental with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 13 runs and dismantling India's top order early, while Mitchell Marsh's aggressive 46 off 26 balls anchored Australia's successful chase of 126 with 40 balls to spare. Travis Head provided strong support with a quick 28, contributing to a 51-run opening partnership that set the tone for the chase. Despite valiant efforts from India’s Abhishek Sharma, who scored 68, and Harshit Rana with 35, the Indian innings was marred by early collapses and inconsistency. India's bowlers, including Varun Chakravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah, managed to take a few wickets late in the Australian innings, but it was insufficient to halt the hosts’ momentum. The comprehensive win was highlighted by Australia's disciplined bowling and aggressive batting, leaving them in a strong position in the series.