Australia dominates as Behrendorff, Dwarshuis restrict India to 160-8 in decisive 5th T20 clash

In a riveting display of fast bowling prowess, Australia’s dynamic duo, Jason Behrendorff and Ben Dwarshuis, snare two wickets each, limiting India to a challenging total of 160-8 in the final Twenty20 international on Sunday.

Australia’s strategic decision to put India into bat first paid off handsomely, with the Indian side grappling with consistent wicket losses throughout the innings. Despite the challenging conditions, Shreyas Iyer emerged as the saving grace, smashing an impressive 53 off 37 balls in Bengaluru.

Fast bowler Aaron Hardie, with figures of 1-21, and the precise leg-spin of Tanveer Sangha (1-26) showcased disciplined performances on a sluggish pitch. The weather added an additional layer of complexity, with a looming threat of rain and a slight drizzle in the evening.

Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal displayed aggression, but his innings was cut short by Behrendorff, the left-arm quick, dismissing the left-hand batsman for 21 runs. Dwarshuis, another left-arm pace bowler, then wreaked havoc by sending back Ruturaj Gaikwad (10) and captain Suryakumar Yadav (5), leading to India’s slump to 55-4 after Rinku Singh’s departure.

Shreyas Iyer’s resilient efforts saw partnerships of 42 with Jitesh Sharma (24) and 46 with Axar Patel (31 from 21 balls). However, Iyer’s fifty celebrations were short-lived as Nathan Ellis bowled the batsman with a yorker.

Australia’s disciplined bowling and strategic breakthroughs have set the stage for a thrilling chase, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the conclusion of this fiercely contested T20 series.