Hazlewood Shines as Australia Take Series Lead Over India
The Melbourne Cricket Ground was packed with over 82,000 fans on Halloween night, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the second T20 international between Australia and India.
Players wore black armbands and observed a minute’s silence in memory of 17-year-old Ben Austin, who tragically died in a net practice accident earlier that week. His image was shown on the stadium screens, accompanied by his favorite song playing softly.
Once the match began, Australia’s bowlers quickly dominated. Captain Mitch Marsh won the toss and chose to field first, a move that paid off immediately.
Josh Hazlewood showcased his exceptional seam bowling skills. Although he trapped Shubman Gill lbw on the very first ball, the decision was overturned on review. Gill managed only five runs before Hazlewood took his catch at mid-off, setting a tough tone for India’s innings.
The Indian openers struggled to settle, but young left-hander Abhishek Sharma brought some hope with a series of boundaries.
Summary: Josh Hazlewood’s skillful bowling put Australia in control early, as the Melbourne crowd honored Ben Austin's memory during a tense, impactful T20 clash.