Varun Chakravarthy provided India with a much-needed breakthrough in the second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, October 31, dismissing the explosive Travis Head with the help of an outstanding effort from Tilak Varma. Despite India being bundled out for a modest 125 earlier in the evening, the visitors showed great spirit in the field to stay alive in the contest.
Australia began their chase in commanding fashion, with openers Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head attacking from the outset. The duo raced to 50 inside the power play, putting India under immense pressure. However, Chakravarthy, known for his deceptive variations, delivered the key moment by removing Head for 28 off just 15 balls.
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The real highlight, though, was Tilak Varma’s breathtaking catch at long-off—one that reminded fans of Suryakumar Yadav’s gravity-defying effort in the T20 World Cup 2025 final against South Africa. Head attempted to loft a flighted delivery straight down the ground, but Tilak read it brilliantly. Timing his jump to perfection, he took the catch cleanly near the boundary rope.
What a brilliant catch on the boundary from Tilak Varma! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/NdmTd6q2et
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 31, 2025
In a display of sharp awareness and composure, Tilak tossed the ball in the air just as his momentum carried him over the boundary cushions. He then stepped back into the field and safely completed the catch, drawing applause from teammates and spectators alike.
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The dismissal broke Australia’s early momentum and reignited hope for India, who were desperate for breakthroughs after a disappointing batting display. Chakravarthy’s clever bowling and Tilak’s athleticism reflected India’s fighting spirit despite defending a low total.
At the time of dismissal, Australia were still in a comfortable position but the spectacular catch ensured that India stayed competitive, showing that brilliance in the field can still turn the tide in a low-scoring T20 contest.
