Win Projections to be updated soon
- Scorecard is available here
Melbourne, 1 November 2025:
Josh Hazlewood produced a blistering new-ball spell to silence India supporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground as Australia cruised to a four-wicket victory and a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series on Friday.
Hazlewood took 3 for 13 in four overs, setting up India’s collapse to 125 all out despite a dazzling lone effort from Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 68 off 37 balls. The hosts then chased down the target with 40 balls to spare, finishing 126 for 6, led by Mitchell Marsh’s 46 off 26 and Travis Head’s 28 off 15.
Everything about the night felt like an away fixture for the Australians, except the pitch. Hazlewood made full use of the bounce and pace, striking early to leave India reeling at 40 for 4 after the powerplay. He beat and battered India’s top order, including Shubman Gill, who was struck on the helmet during a fiery opening over and removed Gill, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma in a devastating burst.
Nathan Ellis (2 for 21) and Xavier Bartlett (2 for 39) provided steady support, while Abhishek fought a lone battle. The 23-year-old opener launched 14 runs off Bartlett’s second over and reached his half-century from just 23 balls, but received little help. Harshit Rana’s 35 off 33 was the only other notable contribution as India were bowled out in the final over.
Australia’s chase began with Marsh and Head surviving Jasprit Bumrah’s early burst before shifting gears. Marsh muscled four sixes in a powerful display, while Head mixed aggression with placement to snuff out any Indian hope.
Varun Chakravarthy’s 2 for 23 briefly stalled Australia’s progress and Bumrah struck twice in two balls with the finish line in sight, but the hosts were already home.
The victory margin flattered India, Australia’s dominance, driven by Hazlewood’s brilliance and Marsh’s control, underscored the gulf on the night.
Australia lead the five-match series 1-0, with the third T20I to be played in Sydney on Sunday.
