India secured their place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals with a 24-run victory over Australia, thanks to a dazzling innings from skipper Rohit Sharma and impactful spells from bowlers Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav.
The win ensures India will face England in the semi-final at Providence Stadium, Guyana on June 27.
Rohit’s Blazing Start
Put to bat first, Rohit Sharma set the tone early, smashing Australian bowlers to all corners of the ground. His 92 off 41 balls included eight massive sixes, propelling India to a formidable total of 205/5.
Despite losing Virat Kohli for a duck to a bouncer from Josh Hazlewood, Rohit found support from Suryakumar Yadav (31) and a late blitz from Hardik Pandya (27*).
“Rohit was in sublime form today, his aggression put us on the back foot right from the start,”
admitted Australian captain Mitchell Marsh.
Key Contributions
The Indian innings was marked by its aggressive approach, with Shivam Dube also contributing 28 off 20 balls.
Australia’s bowling attack struggled, with Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins conceding runs heavily, though Josh Hazlewood managed to maintain some control with figures of 1/14 from his four overs.
“Rohit’s innings was just what we needed, and our bowlers backed it up superbly,”
said Indian coach Rahul Dravid
Australia’s Rocky Chase
Chasing 206, Australia got off to a shaky start as Arshdeep Singh removed David Warner on the last ball of the first over.
Despite a promising partnership between Marsh and Travis Head, the latter’s dismissal for 76 by Jasprit Bumrah triggered a collapse.
Maxwell (20) and Stoinis (2) couldn’t stabilize the innings, leaving too much for the lower order.
Kuldeep Yadav’s spin proved crucial, removing key players and finishing with figures of 2/24.
Arshdeep Singh was equally impressive with 3/37.
“India bowled brilliantly, and Kuldeep’s spell really turned the game in their favour,”
said Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell.
A Night of Spectacular Catches
The highlight of the match was Axar Patel’s one-handed stunner at the boundary to dismiss Marsh, shifting momentum back to India.
“Axar’s catch was simply outstanding and came at a crucial moment,”
praised Rohit Sharma.
Semi-Final Beckons
With this win, India tops Group 1 with two victories in as many games. Australia’s chances now hinge on the outcome of the Afghanistan vs. Bangladesh match. If Afghanistan wins, Australia will be knocked out.
India will now prepare to take on England, aiming to continue their unbeaten run in the tournament.
“Facing England in the semi-finals will be challenging, but our team is ready and in great form,”
said Rohit Sharma.
Brief Score:
- India: 205/5 (Rohit Sharma 92, Suryakumar Yadav 31; Mitchell Starc 2/45)
- Australia: 181/7 (Travis Head 76; Arshdeep Singh 3/37, Kuldeep Yadav 2/24)
This thrilling win not only keeps India’s hopes alive but also sets the stage for an exciting semi-final clash against England.
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