India clinched a hard-fought victory against Australia by two wickets in the second one-day international on Thursday, leveling the three-match series at 1-1. The win came down to the wire, with the hosts chasing a target of 259 runs in front of a packed crowd at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium.

Shubman Gill anchored the innings with a composed 92, falling just short of a century, while Virat Kohli contributed 46 in a crucial partnership that steadied the ship after early wickets. Australia had set a competitive total, thanks to Steve Smith's gritty 85 and a late flourish from Marnus Labuschagne, who scored 62.

The match saw several momentum shifts. India lost openers Rohit Sharma (12) and Shreyas Iyer (28) early, putting pressure on the middle order. However, a 112-run stand between Gill and Kohli turned the tide. Australia fought back with quick wickets from Pat Cummins (3-45) and Adam Zampa (2-38), reducing India to 210-7.

In a dramatic finish, Hardik Pandya smashed 24 off 18 balls, and Axar Patel remained unbeaten on 15 to guide India home with three balls to spare. "It was a team effort; we believed till the end," said Indian captain Rohit Sharma after the match.

Australian skipper Pat Cummins reflected on the loss: "We had them on the ropes, but credit to India for holding their nerve."

Match Scorecard

The decisive third ODI is scheduled for Sunday in Chennai, where both teams will vie for the series win. India's bowling attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah's impressive 4-52, was instrumental in restricting Australia below 260 despite a solid start.

This victory marks India's 15th ODI win against Australia at home since 2010, highlighting their strong record in familiar conditions.