India sealed a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia in the third one-day international (ODI) at Sydney, thanks to brilliant centuries from Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The win provided a consolation for India after losing the series 2-1, but showcased their batting firepower and resilience.

Rohit Sharma Hits Milestone 50th International Century

Rohit Sharma remained unbeaten on 121 off 125 balls, marking his 50th international hundred across formats. His innings featured crisp drives and authoritative strokes, underlining his status as one of the most prolific batsmen in ODI cricket history.

Alongside Kohli, Rohit shared an unbroken 168-run partnership, steering India to their target of 237 with 69 balls to spare. This dominant display highlighted the duo’s chemistry and experience at the international level.

Virat Kohli Rises Up ODI Run Charts

Virat Kohli, who had endured two ducks in the first two ODIs of the series, returned strongly with a composed 74* off 81 deliveries. In the process, he surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history, moving to 14,255 career runs, though still trailing Sachin Tendulkar’s 18,426.

Australia Struggle with the Bat

Australia, electing to bat first, were bowled out for 236 in 46.4 overs. Seamer Harshit Rana led the Indian bowling attack with figures of 4-39, applying relentless pressure on the Australian top order.

Debutant Matt Renshaw top-scored with 56, marking his first ODI half-century, but the rest of Australia’s top six failed to convert starts into significant contributions, with scores ranging between 23 and 41.

India’s Reply and Key Contributions

India’s reply was nearly flawless, with Shubman Gill being the lone wicket to fall, caught behind off Josh Hazlewood for 24. Rohit and Kohli then comfortably guided India to victory, demonstrating composure and tactical awareness in a pressure chase.

Score Summary:
Australia – 236 all out (Renshaw 56, Rana 4-39)
India – 237-1 (Rohit Sharma 121*, Virat Kohli 74*)
Result: India won by nine wickets

Looking Ahead: T20 Series

Following the ODI series, India and Australia will now face off in a five-match T20 international series, beginning in Canberra on Wednesday. The teams will aim to continue their competitive rivalry in the shortest format, with India looking to carry forward momentum from their dominant performance in the third ODI.