In the aftermath of the thrilling T20I match at Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav expressed admiration for Ruturaj Gaikwad's exceptional performance, despite India's loss to Australia. Gaikwad's spectacular unbeaten knock of 123 runs from 57 balls, featuring 13 boundaries and seven sixes, was a highlight of the game. However, even this remarkable innings was not enough to secure a win for India, as Glenn Maxwell's century led Australia to a five-wicket victory.
Suryakumar, reflecting on the match, acknowledged that their strategy had been to dismiss Maxwell early, but conceded that Australia always had a chance with their remaining wickets. Maxwell's explosive batting, with 104 runs off 48 balls, was pivotal in steering Australia to the win.
"Just to get Maxi (Maxwell) out quickly. I think that was the plan, but yeah, I mean, when you're defending 200-210 with so much dew I think you got to give something to the bowlers. They lost wickets early on, so they couldn't reach the end, but with the wickets in hand for them and then for 220, I think they were always in the game," said Suryakumar.
Suryakumar singled out Gaikwad for special praise, describing him as a 'special player' and commending his ability to carry the innings. Gaikwad's score is now the second-highest by an Indian batsman in T20Is.
"Fantastic. I mean, the way Ruturaj batted after I got out, he took the inning deep. I've always said during franchise cricket as well, that he is a special player. And the way he batted, he showed it, but yeah, at the end. Very proud of my boys," Suryakumar added.
The match began with India batting first but soon encountering setbacks as both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ishan Kishan were dismissed early. Suryakumar himself contributed a valuable 39 runs off 29 balls before being taken out by Aaron Hardie. However, it was Gaikwad who became the centerpiece of India's innings, with his unbeaten 123, comprising 13 fours and seven sixes, propelling India to a competitive total of 222 for 3.
Australia's chase was off to a swift start thanks to Travis Head, but India managed to claw back into the game with some quick wickets. After Head's dismissal, Maxwell took center stage, dominating the match with his batting prowess and effectively snatching the victory from India.
With this win, Australia keeps their hopes alive in the five-match series. The teams are now gearing up for the fourth T20I, which is scheduled to be played in Raipur on Friday, December 1. This match promises to be another exciting encounter as India seeks to rebound from this setback and Australia aims to maintain their momentum.
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