India clinched the T20 series against Australia 4-1 as Shreyas Iyer's explosive 53 and a composed final over by fast bowler Arshdeep Singh secured a six-run win in Bengaluru on Sunday.
Opting to field first, Australia faced a challenging target of 161 after India posted 160-8. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Iyer's brilliant 37-ball innings propelled the hosts. The Indian bowling attack, led by Mukesh Kumar (3-32), Ravi Bishnoi (2-29), and Axar Patel (1-14), restricted Australia to 154-8.
In a tense final over, Arshdeep defended nine runs, starting with two crucial dot balls and dismissing skipper Matthew Wade for 22. Arshdeep's excellent bowling sealed the series victory for India, leaving Australia with just three runs from the last three balls.
Captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed his satisfaction, saying, "It was a good series from day one. We wanted to be fearless and enjoy ourselves when we were in the middle. So, very happy with that."
Australia's chase featured a spirited knock from Ben McDermott, who scored 54 off 36 deliveries. However, Mukesh's quick strikes, including a potential hat-trick, dented Australia's hopes.
Despite a late surge from Wade, who contested a no-ball decision before ultimately falling to Arshdeep, India emerged victorious in a series that provided solace to fans following India's ODI World Cup final loss to Australia.
Iyer, instrumental in India's success, formed crucial partnerships with Jitesh Sharma (42 runs) and Axar Patel (46 runs) before his dismissal. Nathan Ellis dismissed Iyer after a fiery fifty, contributing to India's total.
As both teams look ahead to the T20 World Cup in June next year, India's second-string side showcased resilience and talent, ending the series on a high note.
