Xtra Time Web Desk: In a spectacular display of stroke play, Glenn Maxwell orchestrated a remarkable 5 wickets victory for Australia in the third T20I at Guwahati on Tuesday. Maxwell, who will be flying back home rescued Australia from a precarious situation against India. Chasing a formidable target of 223, the visitors stumbled with quick wickets. Maxwell emerged as the saviour, unleashing a breathtaking onslaught, scoring an unbeaten 104 off 48 balls, turned the tide in Australia’s favour.
Maxwell’s onslaught comprised 8 fours and 8 sixes, steering Australia to their biggest T20I run chase. Despite leaking 30 runs in the final over of Indian innings, Maxwell’s heroic batting effort ensured Australia stayed alive in the series. There were useful contributions from Travis Head (35 off 18) and Mathew Wade (28 off 16) towards the end as well.
Earlier, Ruturaj Gaikwad seized the spotlight, overshadowing India’s power-packed batting lineup, as he crafted an unforgettable century (123* off 57 balls) against Australia. Gaikwad showcased a finesse in manipulating the strike, disrupting the plans of the opposition captain in the fast-paced T20 format. Having honed this skill with the Chennai Super Kings, Gaikwad elevated his game on the international stage, becoming the first Indian batter to notch a T20 International century against Australia.
Despite the early dismissals of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan, Gaikwad remained composed. Suryakumar Yadav, undeterred by the setbacks, showcased his aggressive style with a quick 39 off 29 balls, setting the tone for India on a flat pitch.
The turning point in India’s innings occurred with SKY’s dismissal in the 11th over. However, this setback only fuelled the Indian batting prowess. From 81 for 3 in the 11th over, India surged to a commanding 222 for 3 by the end of the 20th over, with Ruturaj Gaikwad leading the charge. Even without Rinku Singh needing to bat, Tilak Varma contributed a composed, unbeaten 31.