Australia Clinches Third T20I as Maxwell’s Century Stuns India
- Gaikwad’s maiden T20I century led India in the 3rd T20I.
- Maxwell’s unbeaten 104 secured a narrow win for Australia.
- Australia aims to level the series in the fourth T20I at 1-2.
Australia edged out India by a narrow margin in the third T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday, narrowing the series deficit to 1-2.
Chasing a challenging target of 223 runs, Australia held their nerve to complete the chase on the last ball with five wickets in hand, thanks to Glenn Maxwell’s unbeaten 104-run knock.
Earlier, India, batting first, posted a competitive total of 222 for the loss of three wickets, courtesy of Ruturaj Gaikwad’s maiden T20I century.
Gaikwad, opening the innings, struck a magnificent 123 runs off 57 balls, anchoring India’s innings. He received good support from captain Suryakumar Yadav (39) and Tilak Verma (31 not out).
Australia, in reply, got off to a brisk start, reaching 47 runs in the powerplay. However, Indian bowlers managed to peg them back, taking wickets at regular intervals.
Maxwell, though, stood tall amidst the falling wickets and guided Australia to a thrilling victory. His unbeaten 104 came off just 48 balls and included 9 fours and 5 sixes.
With this win, Australia have kept the series alive and will now look to level the scoreline in the fourth T20I.
Brief Scores:
- India: 222/3 (Ruturaj Gaikwad 123 not out, Suryakumar Yadav 39, Tilak Verma 31 not out)
- Australia: 223/5 (Glenn Maxwell 104 not out, Travis Head 35, Marcus Stoinis 17)
Man of the Match: Glenn Maxwell (Australia)
