India beats Australia in Republic Day cricket

JAKARTA: India defeated Australia by 30 runs in the 4th Kangaroo-Curry Cup in Cibubur on Saturday. This T20 Cricket game, played between expatriates of the two countries, is an annual event held
to celebrate Republic Day in India and Australia. Republic Day is Jan. 26 in both nations.

The Indian team piled up 153/5 in their allotted 20 overs celebrated on at bat. A solid knock from opener Avakash Lohia (36), a breathtaking cameo from the man of the match Subhash Modgil (47 not out) and a quickfire unbeaten 21 from Gaurav Tiwari helped India to a big score. For Australia, Rob Crauss took 2 for 26.

In response, Australia’s batting was tottering at 27 runs for 5 wickets with Indian bowlers Rajeev Ramnarayan 3 for 12 and Dhiraj Nagpal 2 for 17 doing the maximum damage. A fighting 50 by Dave Holme gave some hope to the Australian supporters who were present in large numbers. But, once Holme was out, Australia caved in at 123, losing 8 wickets.

Both sides have now won the trophy twice. — JP