On October 31, 2025, cricket fans witnessed a memorable night at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as Australia defeated India by four wickets in the second T20I to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. But this wasn’t just any win — it ended India’s 17-year unbeaten T20I record at the MCG, making it a night to remember in cricket history.
First Innings: India’s Collapse and Abhishek Sharma’s Lone Fight
India won the toss and chose to bat first — a decision that quickly backfired. The Australian bowlers, led by the ever-reliable Josh Hazlewood, tore through India’s top order with clinical precision. His outstanding spell of 3 wickets for just 13 runs left India struggling from the start.
Hazlewood bowled a dream opening over, clean bowling Yashasvi Jaiswal and setting the tone for the innings. Soon after, Suryakumar Yadav and Ruturaj Gaikwad followed, leaving India reeling at 35 for 3.
But one man stood firm — Abhishek Sharma. The young left-hander played a fearless and attacking knock of 68 runs off 37 balls, hitting six fours and four massive sixes. His confidence and aggression gave India some hope and entertained the crowd with flashes of brilliance.
Unfortunately, support from the other end was missing. Australia’s spinners — Adam Zampa and Marcus Stoinis — tightened their grip in the middle overs, and wickets kept falling. India’s innings folded for just 125 runs in 19 overs, a total that was clearly below par on a batting-friendly MCG pitch.
Australia’s Chase: Power, Composure, and Travis Head’s Brilliance
Chasing 126 looked simple on paper, but India’s bowlers fought hard early on. Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh bowled disciplined spells with the new ball. However, Travis Head had other ideas.
The left-hander attacked from the very first over, playing with freedom and aggression. His 46 off just 26 balls — including five fours and three sixes — made sure Australia’s chase stayed on track.
India tried to claw back through their champion bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who picked up two important wickets for 26 runs and briefly gave his team hope. Washington Sundar also dismissed Mitchell Marsh, but by then, Australia had built enough momentum.
In the end, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis calmly guided Australia home in just 13.2 overs, sealing a comfortable win and breaking India’s long-standing record at the venue.
Turning Point: Josh Hazlewood’s Spell
Without a doubt, the turning point of the match was Josh Hazlewood’s opening spell. His accuracy, movement, and ability to find the perfect length made life miserable for Indian batters.
The MCG pitch usually favors batsmen, but Hazlewood turned it into a bowler’s paradise. His control and discipline created pressure that India never recovered from — a masterclass in fast bowling that paved the way for Australia’s win.
India’s Lessons and the Road Ahead
This loss exposed several issues in India’s setup — especially in the middle order, which failed to provide stability once again. Despite Abhishek Sharma’s brilliant knock, the rest of the batting lineup collapsed without resistance.
Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and Ruturaj Gaikwad couldn’t capitalize on their starts, while the lower order offered little support.
In bowling, Bumrah and Siraj impressed with their effort, but India’s spinners struggled to contain the Australians. If India wants to bounce back in the remaining matches, they’ll need to fix their batting combinations and rethink their spin strategy.
A Symbolic Victory for Australia
Australia’s win was not just a victory in numbers — it was a symbolic triumph. Ending India’s 17-year unbeaten run at the MCG is no small feat. It showed the depth, discipline, and determination in the Australian side.
Hazlewood’s bowling, Head’s explosive batting, and the team’s collective composure turned this into a statement win.
For India, it was a reminder that in cricket, no record is permanent. Every streak eventually meets its end — and on this night, that end came under the bright lights of Melbourne.
Australia Clinches Four-Wicket Win Over India in Second T20I at MCG