India defeats dangerous Australia by 24 runs to almost ruin their semi-final hopes in t20 world cup. The Men in Blue are qualified for the tournament semifinals with six points in hand.
In a match with millions of Indian cricket fans on the edge of their seats, India triumphed over Australia by 24 runs. This win wasn’t just about points or progression; it was about pride, passion, and the genuine desire for redemption brewing for a year.
Despite already having a clear path to the semifinals, India’s determination to clinch this “formal” match was evident. The victory solidified their position and played a crucial role in supporting Afghanistan’s campaign. For the Indian fans, this match was much more than just a game—it was an emotional journey and a testament to their unwavering support and belief in their team.
The 24-run win was the icing, a fitting response to the previous year’s disappointment. As the final overs unfolded, the collective cheer of millions resonated, celebrating a victory that was as much about the heart as it was about the scoreboard.
Match Highlights
Australia made their first critical error when they elected to bowl first after winning the toss, unaware that Rohit Sharma had been eagerly waiting for this moment for over a year. Sharma had the Australian captain’s past statement etched in his mind, fueling his determination.
Rohit Sharma silenced his critics with a commanding performance, setting the tone for India’s batting.
Although the match-winner, Virat Kohli, was dismissed early, Sharma had other plans. He played a scintillating innings, scoring 92 runs off just 41 balls, including eight towering sixes and seven fours, electrifying the crowd and putting India in a strong position.
Mr. 360, Suryakumar Yadav, added a crucial cameo of 31 runs off 16 balls, featuring two sixes and three fours. Contributions from Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya, who scored 28 and 27 runs, respectively, propelled India to a formidable total of 205 runs.
Australia’s decision to bowl first backfired as India posted a daunting total. On the bowling front, Mitchell Starc and Marcus Stoinis each claimed two wickets, while Josh Hazlewood took one, but it wasn’t enough to stem the Indian onslaught.
Australia Batting
In their chase, Australia faltered early, with David Warner falling quickly. Despite a promising partnership between Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh, who played some excellent shots, India’s formidable bowling lineup proved too strong. Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah showcased why they are considered among the best in the world cup.
Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Mitchell Marsh when he was on 37, sparking Australia’s decline. Although Glenn Maxwell posed a threat, Kuldeep cleverly sent him back in the 14th over, after which India’s victory seemed inevitable.
With stellar bowling performances from Kuldeep and Bumrah and a standout three-wicket haul from Arshdeep Singh, India secured a 24-run victory. Kuldeep took two crucial wickets, while Bumrah, despite his legendary status, managed just one, showcasing a team effort.
Australia’s chances in the semifinals
Australia is often regarded as the powerhouse of ICC tournaments, especially in World Cups. However, this time, two Asian teams have managed to unsettle the giants. In their previous match, Afghanistan secured a notable victory over Australia. Now, India has followed suit with a decisive win.
With just two points from three matches, Australia’s chances look bleak. In contrast, Afghanistan also has two points but with one game left to play. If Afghanistan wins their next match against Bangladesh, they will advance to the playoffs, relegating Australia to third place in the group.
This scenario puts Australia in an unusual position, having to rely on the outcome of another team’s match for their fate. Australia’s hopes of world cup hinge on Afghanistan losing to Bangladesh.
Even if rain disrupts the match and both Afghanistan and Bangladesh share a point each, Afghanistan would advance to the semifinals of t20 world cup.
Also read: England Crushed the USA to Knock them Out of the World Cup
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