India has once again managed to get the better of the Australian batsmen in the first T20 international in Ranchi. The bowlers put brakes on Australian innings from the very first over when Bhuvneshwar sent Warner packing.
However, Finch and Maxwell managed a decent partnership for the second wicket, but the middle order fell apart, as Chahal and Kuldeep once again impressed in the middle overs. The visitors were 118/8 in 18.4 overs before rain stopped play. The match was then reduced to six overs for Indian innings with a target of 48. The Indian top-order had taken the team home quite comfortably, as they took a well-deserved lead in the three-match T20I series. Speaking after the game, Virat Kohli was full of praise to his team, he said:
“After winning the toss and bowling first, that sort of effort was required and the our bowlers did well. The game can get tricky with a small chase like that. Bhuvi getting us the early breakthrough, Bumrah in the end overs and spinners in the middle overs. It’s been a combined effort from the players.
“Giving the younger bowlers the confidence they need. Wrist spinners can turn the game on its head. We are very happy with the bowlers right now. You need to execute your yorkers, and you have to have a strong in the head to take your chances against the batsmen.
“You need to have the skill and a strong head in T20I cricket. He (Dhawan) was playing really well in Sri Lanka. He is an impact player, and we need him to do well,” he added.