Australia's T20 World Cup Dream Dangles by a Thread

Australia’s hopes in the T20 World Cup hang by a thread after Rohit Sharma’s brilliant 92 led India to a 24-run victory in St Lucia. India topped Super 8s Group 1 with a flawless record and will face defending champions England in the semi-finals in Guyana on Thursday (15:30 BST). Australia’s fate hinges on the outcome of Afghanistan’s match against Bangladesh (01:30 BST on Tuesday).

If Afghanistan wins, Australia will be eliminated. Alternatively, a Bangladesh win with a significant improvement in net run-rate could also end Australia’s campaign with South Africa waiting in the semi-finals. Australia’s hopes of reaching the semis were dashed by Rohit’s phenomenal innings, featuring eight sixes and seven fours in 41 balls. After winning the toss, India raced to 100 within nine overs, with Rohit eventually bowled by Mitchell Starc at 127-2 in the 12th over.

Australia fought back to limit India to 205-5. David Warner, possibly in his final international innings, fell early, caught at slip off Arshdeep Singh for six. Travis Head and captain Mitchell Marsh launched a counter-attack, but Axar Patel’s incredible one-handed catch ended Marsh’s resistance at 37. Despite Head’s effort, Australia faltered as boundaries dried up and the required run-rate soared.

Jasprit Bumrah’s dismissal of Head for 76 sealed Australia’s fate at 181-7, banking on Bangladesh for their progression. Rohit’s dominant display, fueled by memories of past defeats, propelled India, although their momentum slowed towards the end. Australia’s woes included poor catching and ineffective bowling with Marsh persisting with costly options.

Rohit praised his tactical adaptability while Marsh admitted disappointment over Australia’s performance against India. The defeat leaves Australia’s tournament hopes in jeopardy, contrasting sharply with their strong start. Now, they await Bangladesh’s result while England prepares for the semi-finals.