The second T20I match between India and Australia took place on Friday, October 31, 2025, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Fast bowler Harshit Rana played a crucial role after being promoted to bat at number seven. This decision came as India found themselves in a precarious position at 49/5 in just 7.3 overs.
Harshit Rana’s Performance
Joining Abhishek Sharma in the middle, Rana helped stabilize the innings. The two formed a vital sixth-wicket partnership, scoring 56 runs off 47 balls. They were instrumental in pushing India past the 100-run mark in the 15th over.
Rana’s innings started cautiously. He struck his first boundary by cutting Matthew Kuhnemann. Soon, he added another four by flicking Josh Hazlewood towards deep square leg. As he settled in, Rana showcased his batting skills, eventually scoring 35 runs off 33 balls, which included three fours and one six.
Abhishek Sharma’s Contribution
Abhishek Sharma also made headlines, scoring his maiden half-century in Australia. He recorded a remarkable 68 runs off 37 balls, featuring eight fours and two sixes. His performance was vital for India, although they ultimately fell short, getting bowled out for 125 runs in 18.4 overs.
Bowling Highlights for Australia
- Josh Hazlewood: 3 wickets for 13 runs
- Xavier Bartlett: 2 wickets for 39 runs
- Nathan Ellis: 2 wickets for 21 runs
Earlier in the match, India’s top order faced a significant collapse, primarily due to Hazlewood’s exceptional bowling. He removed key batsmen including Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, contributing to India’s disastrous start as they slumped to 32/4 within 5 overs.
The second T20I highlighted both Harshit Rana and Abhishek Sharma’s potential as they navigated through challenging conditions against a strong Australian bowling lineup. Their efforts, however, were not enough to change the course of the match.
