Australia Masters’ dynamic duo, captain Shane Watson and Ben Dunk, put on a spectacular batting display, smashing 17 sixes in the ninth match of the International Masters League (IML) 2025 against India Masters. The match was held on Wednesday, March 5, at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara.
After winning the toss, India Masters opted to bowl first. Pawan Negi provided an early breakthrough in the fifth over by dismissing Shaun Marsh for 22. However, Ben Dunk, coming in at number three, wasted no time and reached his fifty in just 23 balls.
Shane Watson soon joined the onslaught, bringing up his half-century in 29 deliveries. The pair dominated the Indian bowling attack, sending the ball to all parts of the ground. Both batters completed their centuries in the 18th over, with Watson reaching the milestone in 47 balls and Dunk in just 43.
Watch this video highlighting the 17 sixes smashed by the Australian pair:
https://x.com/7cricket/status/1897490745730458074?s=46
Watson remained unbeaten on 110 off 52 deliveries, striking 12 fours and seven sixes, while Dunk scored an explosive 132* off 53 balls, featuring 12 fours and 10 sixes in a breathtaking display of power-hitting.
Australia Masters put up a massive total of 269/1 in their 20 overs, setting a daunting target for India Masters.
Tendulkar’s quick fifty goes in vain as Australia Masters secure dominant win
India Masters began their chase with a solid 58-run opening stand between Sachin Tendulkar and Naman Ojha (19). However, Saurabh Tiwary (1) and Irfan Pathan (11) fell cheaply. Tendulkar was in fine form, racing to a 25-ball fifty and scoring 64 off 33 deliveries, hitting seven fours and four sixes.
Despite his efforts, the middle order collapsed, with no other batter making a significant impact. India Masters were eventually bowled out for 174 on the final delivery, falling 95 runs short. Xavier Doherty starred for Australia Masters, claiming five wickets.
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