India finished the three-match ODI series on a high with a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday. Chasing 237 for victory, skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli led from the front with a superb unbeaten partnership that underlined their enduring class and composure under pressure. The win helped India avoid a whitewash and end the series with renewed confidence ahead of their next assignment.
After being asked to field first, India’s bowlers produced a clinical display. Mohammed Siraj drew first blood in the powerplay, dismissing Josh Head, before spinners Axar Patel and Washington Sundar applied the brakes with tight spells through the middle overs. Young pacer Harshit Rana impressed yet again, finishing with an outstanding 4/39 as Australia were bowled out for a modest 236. His disciplined line and variations ensured that the hosts failed to capitalize on their early momentum.
In reply, India’s openers set the tone with a brisk 68-run opening stand in 10 overs. After Shubman Gill’s dismissal off Josh Hazlewood, the experienced duo of Rohit and Kohli took control of the chase. The pair showcased masterclass batting—precise timing, measured aggression, and flawless running between the wickets—to dismantle Australia’s bowlers in front of a packed SCG crowd that fervently cheered every run.
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Rohit Sharma reached his 33rd ODI century in spectacular fashion, finishing unbeaten on 121, while Kohli anchored perfectly from the other end with 74 not out. During the innings, Kohli registered his 75th ODI fifty and surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history—adding yet another milestone to his glittering career.
Their 168-run unbroken partnership sealed the game with 11.3 overs to spare, capping off a memorable performance for India. The emphatic win not only restored pride for the visitors but also reaffirmed the unmatched experience and composure of Rohit and Kohli—two stalwarts continuing to define India’s success in one-day cricket.
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