Australia vs India 3rd T20I: Tim David’s Fast Fifty Amid Criticism of India’s Line-up
India opted to field first in the third T20I against Australia at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval. The match holds major stakes, with Australia leading the five-match series 1–0. A defeat here would end India's hopes of taking the series.
Australia’s innings gained momentum as Tim David unleashed a fiery 23-ball fifty, leaving Indian bowlers under pressure. His aggressive knock came after early breakthroughs by Varun Chakaravarthy and Arshdeep Singh, who dismissed Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Owen in quick succession.
Early Impact and Turning Points
Varun Chakaravarthy struck twice in one over—first removing Marsh for 11, caught by Tilak Varma, and then bowling Owen for a golden duck. Arshdeep Singh supported with tight bowling early on, taking crucial wickets to restrict Australia’s powerplay charge.
“A loss here would end India’s hopes of winning the series.”
Momentum Shifts with Tim David and Stoinis
Tim David played an explosive inning of 74 runs off 38 balls, including several boundaries that lifted Australia past a shaky start. His dismissal came when Shivam Dube induced a mistimed shot that Tilak Varma caught at long-off.
Later, Marcus Stoinis continued the surge, reaching his own fifty after hitting three boundaries off Arshdeep Singh. He had an earlier reprieve when a low catch by Rinku Singh was declared not out, as replays confirmed the ball bounced first.
Other Contributions and Highlights
Matthew Short added to the scoreboard with a bold six off Abhishek Sharma, although Arshdeep Singh nearly caught it on the boundary. Despite strong spells from India’s spin attack, Australia's aggressive batting turned the tide of the innings.
Critics Weigh In
Srikkanth criticized India’s batting order, suggesting it lacked balance and adaptability under pressure.
As captain Suryakumar Yadav sought redemption after the previous collapse in Melbourne, fans and pundits alike demanded a stronger response from India’s lineup.
Author’s Summary: In Hobart’s decisive T20I, Australia’s dominance powered by Tim David’s 74 keeps India on edge as critics question their tactical clarity.