Varun Chakravarthy once again proved why he’s India’s most unpredictable weapon in T20 cricket, as he outfoxed the dangerous Tim David during the second T20I between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday, October 31. In a contest dominated by the bowlers, Chakravarthy’s clever variations and composure under pressure stood out as he dismissed David for just one run in what turned into a pivotal moment of the match.

Earlier, Team India endured a tough outing with the bat after being asked to bat first on a lively Melbourne surface that offered both pace and bounce. Abhishek Sharma was the only bright spark, crafting a fluent 68 off 37 deliveries that included some exquisite stroke play on the off-side. But with little support from the rest of the batting lineup, India were bundled out for 125 in 18.4 overs.

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Josh Hazlewood was exceptional for Australia, finishing with figures of 3/13 from his four overs, while Xavier Bartlett and Nathan Ellis chipped in with vital breakthroughs. Chasing 126, Australia’s openers Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh gave the hosts a blistering start, racing to 51 in under five overs.

But Varun Chakravarthy’s entry into the attack changed the momentum. He removed Head for 28 with a clever variation and then trapped Tim David soon after, breaking Australia’s early rhythm. The moment was layered with tension — Tilak Varma stood close in, exchanging smiles and subtle chatter with David as Chakravarthy paused mid-run-up, heightening the mind games.

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When play resumed, David, trying to settle in, attempted a cautious defensive shot but ended up chipping a return catch straight to Chakravarthy, who gleefully accepted it. Cricket.com.au later shared the clip with the caption: “Varun Chakravarthy v Tim David were playing some serious mind games 🧠 #AUSvIND.”

Varun Chakaravarthy v Tim David were playing some serious mind games 🧠 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/uuUPTSqwDD

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 31, 2025

Chakravarthy’s spell of 2/23 was the highlight for India, supported by Jasprit Bumrah’s incisive 2/25. Despite a few quick wickets, Australia maintained control, chasing down the target in 14 overs with six wickets in hand to take a 1–0 lead in the five-match series after the first game in Canberra was washed out.