Xtra Time Web Desk: India’s openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan orchestrated an impressive batting display, propelling the home team to a commanding 44-run victory over Australia in the second T20I at Vizag on Sunday. Jaiswal’s aggressive innings of 53 off 25 balls, complemented by Kishan’s 52 off 32 deliveries, guided India to their highest T20I score against Australia, reaching 235-4.
Spinner Ravi Bishnoi and fast bowler Prasidh Krishna starred with the ball, both claiming three wickets, restricting Australia to 191-9 and securing a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Jaiswal laid the foundation for India’s imposing total, with Ruturaj Gaikwad contributing 58, and Rinku Singh finishing unbeaten on 31 off nine balls.
Facing a challenging target, Australia stumbled to 4-58, losing key players like Steve Smith, Josh Inglis, and Glenn Maxwell early in the innings. Tim David (37) and Marcus Stoinis (45 off 25 balls) tried to revive the chase with an 81-run partnership, featuring a barrage of fours and sixes. However, Bishnoi’s leg-spin ended David’s resistance, and Krishna’s two crucial wickets further dented Australia’s hopes.
Despite a valiant effort from skipper Matthew Wade (42* off 23 balls), Australia fell short as India secured a convincing win. The third T20 is scheduled for Tuesday in Guwahati.