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2nd T20I between India and Australia at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was keenly awaited after a no-result in the opening match. With Australia winning the toss and opting to field first, the pressure was on the Indian batting lineup to set a competitive total. While the day was notable for some fine individual performances, it was young Harshit Rana who electrified the crowd with a stunning 104-meter six off seasoned Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, showcasing his raw hitting power.
Harshit Rana smashes Marcus Stoinis for a massive 104 meter six
Sent to bat ahead of senior all-rounder Shivam Dube after a top-order collapse, Harshit Rana justified his promotion with a fighting knock of 35 runs off 33 balls, including three boundaries and one towering six. The highlight was undeniably the massive 104-meter six blasted off Marcus Stoinis in the 14.5th over.
Facing a short outside-off delivery, Rana made room and unfurled a clean, powerful swing that sent the ball soaring over long-on and deep into the crowd. This six not only brought up a vital 50-run partnership with Abhishek Sharma but also injected some much-needed momentum into India’s innings. The powerful stroke drew attention and praise from cricket enthusiasts and experts alike, with former players like Gautam Gambhir expressing pride in Rana’s fearless approach on such a big stage.
Here’s the video:
Short ball? No problem! #HarshitRana clears it for a six! 🚀
Brings up a solid fifty stand fearless, fiery, and full Skyball mode on! 🔥#AUSvIND 👉 2nd T20I | LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/mq9j8bivd0 pic.twitter.com/sOGZ6m3u5y— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 31, 2025
Also READ: Fans roast Shubman Gill after another flop show in Australia during AUS vs IND 2nd T20I
India’s Batting flop show against Australia’s precision
Despite Rana’s efforts, India’s batting performance was a tale of collapse and missed opportunities. The Indian top order crumbled under the relentless pressure of Australia’s pace attack, led by Josh Hazlewood’s masterful spell claiming three crucial wickets, including vital batters Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Tilak Varma inside the powerplay. India lost four wickets for just 32 runs in the first five overs, highlighting their vulnerability on the challenging MCG surface.
Abhishek was the lone warrior with a blazing innings of 68 off 37 balls, featuring eight fours and two sixes, providing some resistance when India was down and out. However, the middle and lower order failed to capitalize on partnerships, with wickets tumbling regularly, including runouts and dismissals by other Australian bowlers like Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis. The collective batting effort managed just 125 runs in 18.4 overs, leaving India with a subpar target on the board.
Australia completed the chase in 13.2 overs, winning the contest by 4 wickets. Captain Mitchell Marsh top scored for the Aussies with 46 off 26 balls. Meanwhile, Hazlewood, who bowled exceptionally well, rightfully earned the Player of the Match award.
