Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli produced a memorable batting display at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, guiding India to a dominant nine-wicket victory over Australia and preventing a series clean sweep.
Former Indian skipper stole the spotlight by scoring his 50th international century, while Kohli reached another major milestone, becoming the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara.
The pair put on their first 100-run stand in any format since January 2020, calmly chasing down Australia’s below-par total and ensuring the hosts did not complete a 3-0 sweep.
Earlier, a sharp spell from young pacer Harshit Rana, who took four wickets, helped India bowl out Australia for 236.
Matthew Renshaw registered his maiden ODI half-century, but Australia struggled to form meaningful partnerships.
Mitchell Marsh, who chose to bat first, saw his side lose momentum after a solid start.
Travis Head fell for 29 soon after crossing 3,000 ODI runs, while Marsh himself was dismissed for 41.
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Tight spells from Axar Patel and Washington Sundar further slowed the scoring rate as wickets fell regularly.
India’s fielding effort also stood out, with Shreyas Iyer taking a stunning catch that unfortunately left him with a rib injury.
In reply, Rohit and Shubman Gill added 68 in the PowerPlay, giving India a confident start.
Gill departed for 24bringing Kohli to the middle, where he received loud cheers after two previous low scores.
Kohli took some time to settle but soon found rhythm, while Rohit continued to dominate the innings.
The pair added their 19th century partnership, with Kohli also reaching his 75th ODI fifty.
Rohit raised his 33rd ODI century and finished the chase in the 39th over, sealing a convincing win for India with plenty to spare.
However, after winning the first two ODIs convincingly, Australia sealed the series 2-1.
