At the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium in Mohali, India clinched a sensational 5-wicket victory against Australia in the first ODI of a much-anticipated three-match series. This thrilling win propels India to a 1-0 lead in the series and sets the stage for an enthralling battle in the matches to come. India become the number one ranked team in all formats.
The Indian cricket team was already number one in tests and T20Is. They narrowly missed the chance in Asia Cup to become the number one Odi ranked team due to a loss against Bangladesh. However today’s victory ensured the overall domination of team across formats.
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As it happened
The contest was marked by stellar performances from both sides. India’s bowlers established dominance early in the game, with Mohammed Shami delivering a stunning spell that fetched him five key wickets at the cost of just 51 runs. Jasprit Bumrah, although securing only one wicket, bowled with precision, applying pressure on the Australian batting lineup. Spin maestros Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, along with the pace of Shardul Thakur, played pivotal roles in containing the Australian innings to a total of 276 runs.
Australia’s innings displayed moments of brilliance, notably from David Warner, who contributed 52 runs, and Steve Smith, who added 41 runs to the tally. However, the consistent breakthroughs by the Indian bowlers prevented Australia from building substantial partnerships.
In pursuit of the 277-run target, India began their innings in style, with Shubman Gill (74) and Ruturaj Gaikwad (71) forging a formidable opening partnership of 142 runs. Although Adam Zampa managed to break this crucial alliance, KL Rahul (58) and Suryakumar Yadav (50) showcased their mettle by guiding India to a thrilling triumph.
KL Rahul, standing in as captain in the absence of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, led by example with a captain’s innings, playing a pivotal role in steering India to victory. His partnership with Suryakumar Yadav emerged as the turning point of the match, and KL Rahul reached his fifty with a resounding six that sealed the win in style.
As the teams gear up for the remaining matches in the series, India’s confidence is soaring. With both squads eyeing the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, this series presents a crucial opportunity for them to fine-tune their strategies and preparations.
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