India Dominates As Varun Chakaravarthy Strikes Key Blow Against Australia

India tightened its grip on the third T20 match against Australia in Hobart as spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed all-rounder Mitchell Owen, leaving the hosts struggling at 73/4. The wicket came at a crucial moment when Australia looked to rebuild after early losses, giving India firm control of the game.

Winning the toss earlier, Australian skipper Matthew Wade chose to bat first, hoping to put up a challenging total on a surface known for assisting both seamers and spinners. However, the Indian bowling attack, led by Arshdeep Singh and Chakaravarthy, proved too good for the hosts in the early overs.

Arshdeep gave India the perfect start by removing opener Travis Head for just 10 runs. Soon after, Mohammed Siraj dismissed Josh Inglis, piling pressure on the middle order. Australia’s star batter Glenn Maxwell tried to counterattack but was trapped leg-before by Axar Patel after a brisk 18 off 12 balls.

When Mitchell Owen walked in, Australia hoped for a partnership that could stabilize their innings. But Chakaravarthy’s clever variation and control proved decisive. Bowling from around the wicket, he delivered a slower one that turned sharply, catching Owen off guard and rattling his stumps. The crowd fell silent as the scoreboard read Australia 73/4 in 10.3 overs.

India’s fielding, too, was sharp and disciplined. Suryakumar Yadav’s diving save at the boundary and Ishan Kishan’s quick glove work behind the stumps reflected the team’s high energy levels. The spinners maintained tight lines, not allowing Australian batters to score freely during the middle overs.

At the halfway mark, Australia’s run rate had dropped below seven, and all eyes were on captain Matthew Wade to anchor the innings. With Cameron Green still at the crease, the home team aimed to push the score beyond 160 to stay competitive.

For India, the focus remained on maintaining bowling pressure and taking wickets at regular intervals. Chakaravarthy’s spell was particularly impressive, as he gave away just 12 runs in his first two overs while picking up a key wicket.

This match holds high significance for both sides. India currently leads the five-match T20 series 2-0, and a win here would seal the series with two games to spare. Australia, on the other hand, is desperate to bounce back and keep the contest alive.

The pitch at Hobart has played slower than expected, helping spinners extract turn and bounce. As the game progresses, batting may become trickier under lights, making India’s disciplined start even more valuable.

Fans at the stadium and millions watching around the world are witnessing a thrilling encounter filled with tactical bowling, smart fielding, and competitive cricket. If India continues this momentum, a series victory in Hobart seems only a matter of time.