Ruturaj Gaikwad showcased an exceptional performance, marking his debut T20 international by scoring an unbeaten 123 runs off just 57 balls. His remarkable innings led India to a formidable total of 222/3 against Australia in the third match of the five-match T20 series. However, despite Gaikwad's stellar effort, Australia's Glenn Maxwell turned the game around with a phenomenal 104* off 48 balls, securing a stunning victory and keeping Australia's hopes alive in the series. Earlier in the first two T20s India won comfortably.
In this crucial match, Australian skipper Matthew Wade elected to bowl first after winning the toss. India faced an early setback with Yashasvi Jaiswal departing for 6 runs in the second over, caught by Wade off Jason Behrendorff's delivery. Soon after, Ishan Kishan fell victim to Kane Richardson on the third delivery of the third over, caught by Stoinis.
Suryakumar Yadav stepped in and contributed 39 runs off 29 balls before being dismissed by Hardie in the 11th over. Gaikwad then accelerated the innings, achieving his maiden T20I century in 52 balls, eventually remaining unbeaten on 123 runs off 57 balls. Tilak Verma provided valuable support, scoring an unbeaten 31 runs in 24 balls, leading to a significant 141-run partnership in just 67 balls. India concluded their innings with a substantial total of 222/3 in 20 overs, setting a target of 223 runs for Australia to chase.
Australia's batsmen managed to maintain the required run rate, with Glenn Maxwell taking charge and almost single-handedly driving their pursuit. While Marcus Stoinis struggled, Captain Matthew Wade gradually found his rhythm, supporting Maxwell's aggressive play. Maxwell's incredible unbeaten 104 off 48 balls, accompanied by Wade's 28 off 16, sealed the victory as Maxwell finished off with a six and three fours in the last four balls of the match.
