Australia won the second T20I against India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground by 4 wickets on October 31, 2025.
India, batting first on a challenging pitch favoring pacers, managed 125 runs in 18.4 overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma led India’s innings with a strong 68 runs off 37 balls. Australia's Josh Hazlewood was the standout bowler, claiming three wickets.
Chasing 126, Australia’s openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head gave a promising start with a 51-run partnership in 27 balls. Varun Chakravarthy dismissed Head for 28. Marsh then scored 46 runs off 26 balls before Kuldeep Yadav took his wicket.
After Marsh's dismissal, Tim David came to bat. India captain Suryakumar Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy employed psychological tactics against David. Tilak Varma was placed at short-leg, which prompted a smile from David, but also caused tension as David backed away and Chakravarthy delayed his run-up.
"Varun Chakravarthy of Team India outfoxed Australia's middle-order batter Tim David with his techniques during the second T20I."
David managed only one run before attempting to defend a ball that bounced more than expected, resulting in a straightforward catch for Chakravarthy.
"Varun Chakaravarthy v Tim David were playing some serious mind games ???? #AUSvIND pic.twitter."
The strategic use of mental pressure by Indian players played a pivotal role in restricting Australia’s middle order.
India's clever use of psychological pressure and key bowling performances at MCG helped contain Australia to a chaseable total and claim victory in the second T20I.