An inspired batting performance helped Australia romp to a nervy two-wicket victory over India in the second ODI at the Adelaide Oval, taking an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing a competitive target of 265, the hosts were powered by brilliant knocks from Cooper Connolly and Matt Short, both of whom slammed eye-catching 61* and 74, respectively, to anchor the chase. Meanwhile, Australia's chase began on a dull note, losing openers Travis Head and skipper Mitchell Marsh early on. However, middle-order batter Matt Short was the hero for Australia, smacking a crucial 74-run knock that helped the side stage their comeback in the game.
Down the order, young star Cooper Connolly's composure at the crease proved to be the difference. The young gun played a fighting knock, mixing caution with aggression, finding gaps with precision and rotating the strike effectively. His little yet important partnership with Mitchell Owen, who contributed a quick-fire 36 off just 23 balls, ensured Australia were on course for a series-clinching win. The classy batter remained unbeaten on 61 as Australia reached the target with 22 balls to spare.
Earlier, India, after being put in to bat, managed to post 264/9 in 50 overs. Rohit Sharma led from the front with a fluent 73, while Shreyas Iyer supported him well with a composed 61. The pair steadied India’s innings after an early stutter, adding crucial runs in the middle overs. Axar Patel's vital 44 runs down the order also helped India put up a respectable total.