Josh Hazlewood delivered a fast-bowling clinic at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), ripping through India’s top order to hand Australia a commanding four-wicket win and a 1-0 lead in the T20I series.
Hazlewood’s fiery spell of 3 for 13 left India reeling at 40 for 4 inside the powerplay, with only Abhishek Sharma showing resistance. The young left-hander smashed a brilliant 68 off 37 balls, striking 8 boundaries and two sixes, but received little support as India were bowled out for just 125.
Australia’s chase was led by skipper Mitchell Marsh, who hammered 46 off 26, and Travis Head’s quickfire 28 off 15. Despite a late burst from Jasprit Bumrah, who claimed two wickets in two balls, Australia crossed the line with 6.4 overs to spare.
Hazlewood’s precision and bounce proved unplayable on the MCG deck, setting the tone for a dominant Australian start to the series.
