Australia Clinches Second ODI Against India to Take Unassailable 2-0 Lead

Australia secured a thrilling two-wicket victory over India in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Adelaide Oval, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead. Chasing a target of 265, Australia reached 265/8 in 46.2 overs, led by a resilient 74 from Matthew Short and an unbeaten 61 by Cooper Connolly, who anchored the successful chase with composure.

India had posted a competitive total of 264/9, with Rohit Sharma top-scoring with a determined 73 off 97 balls. Shreyas Iyer supported him well, contributing 61 runs off 77 deliveries, building a solid platform for India. Axar Patel’s quickfire 44 in the middle overs added crucial momentum, pushing the total to a challenging figure for the hosts.

Despite spirited bowling from India, including two wickets each from Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana, and Washington Sundar, the visitors could not defend their total. Australia’s disciplined batting, particularly in the final overs, ensured they crossed the line with more than three overs to spare, leaving India to rue missed opportunities.

The loss marked an unwanted record for Indian captains, as Shubman Gill became the latest to see his side lose the first two ODIs under his leadership, joining a list of predecessors including Ajit Wadekar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Kris Srikkanth, Mohammad Azharuddin, and KL Rahul.

With the series effectively decided, all eyes will now turn to the third and final ODI, where India will aim to salvage pride and prevent a clean sweep on Australian soil.

This match showcased both teams’ fighting spirit, with India’s batting heroics countered by Australia’s calm and calculated chase, highlighting the competitive edge in the ongoing India-Australia ODI rivalry.