Despite losing the final clash by 66 runs in Rajkot on Wednesday, India won the three-match ODI series (2-1) against Australia.
The third ODI marked the return of the regular skipper Rohit Sharma alongside Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav, who were rested for the first two encounters as a part of team strategy after India’s triumphant Asia Cup 2023 campaign.
Australia came out to bat first after winning the toss in the high-octane clash. The opening duo of David Warner (56) and Mitchell Marsh (96) laid a solid foundation for the hosts, followed by blistering knocks of Steve Smith (74) and Marnus Labuschagne (72), leading the Aussies to a massive total of 352 runs in 50 overs.
Rohit alongside Washington Sundar (18) kicked off the chase in style by playing a thumping knock of 81 runs. Batters Virat (56) and Shreyas Iyer (48) also played hefty knocks, but the Men in Blue kept losing wickets at regular intervals, eventually getting bundled up for 286 and loosing the game.
Also READ: ‘Pretty clear in our mind, not confused’: Rohit Sharma on Team India squad for the ODI World Cup 2023
Kohli’s spendid six off Mitchell Starc
On the third delivery of the 20th over, Starc executed a slower delivery just outside the off-stump, registering a speed of 127.9 kmph. With keen anticipation, Virat confidently moved down the wicket and elegantly struck the ball with a graceful swing of his bat. The ball sailed straight over the fielder stationed at mid-off and travelled an impressive distance. It was a brilliant display of the 34-year-old’s batting masterclass.
Here is the video:
Lofted to perfection 😎
Virat Kohli smacks one straight down the ground in some style!#TeamIndia | #INDvAUS | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/I2smL8wOKi
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 27, 2023
Virat’s remarkable innings, scoring 56 runs, not only signified his 66th half-century in the ODIs but also his astonishing 113th fifty-plus score in the same format of the game. The right-handed batter’s performance against Australia included placing five boundaries and a spectacular six.
Notably, India will be playing their warm-up matches against England and the Netherlands on September and October 3, respectively. The Rohit-led side will take on Australia on October 8 in their opening fixture of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023.
Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Warm-up fixtures full schedule; When and Where to watch in India, US, UK, and other countries
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