In a cricketing spectacle that left fans on the edge of their seats, India showcased their prowess with both bat and ball to clinch the three-match ODI series 2-0 against Australia. The second match played at Indore’s Holkar Cricket Stadium, saw India emerge victorious by a commanding margin of 99 runs, courtesy of the Duckworth–Lewis–Stern (DLS) method due to rain interruptions.
India’s dominance showed in their batting display as remarkable. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer laid the foundation for a colossal total, combining to put up a century partnership. Gill reached his fifty in style, and Iyer followed suit, eventually notching up his third ODI century.
The duo’s partnership of 150 runs showcased their commanding form, and their brilliant understanding helped India reach the 200-run mark. After Iyer’s dismissal, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan kept the momentum going, with KL reaching his half-century.
Suryakumar Yadav’s late fireworks, including four consecutive sixes, electrified the stadium. His explosive innings and contributions from Ravindra Jadeja propelled India to an imposing total of 399/5 in 50 overs, their highest against Australia in a 50-over match.
India’s Dominance with the Ball
Australia’s pursuit of India’s formidable target of 400 runs got off to a shaky start, as Prasidh Krishna struck early in the second over, dismissing Matthew Short and Steve Smith in consecutive deliveries. Smith’s dismissal of a golden duck further compounded Australia’s woes. Australia chose an aggressive approach with two main batters back in the pavilion.
However, rain played a spoilsport, halting play for an hour in the ninth over, with Australia at 56/2. Resuming their innings with a revised target of 317 in 33 overs, Australia faced an uphill battle.
Ravichandran Ashwin made crucial breakthroughs, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne and the dangerous David Warner, who had reached a fifty but couldn’t carry on. Alex Carey and Cameron Green also fell victim to India’s spin bowling attack, while Sean Abbott’s counter-attacking knock provided some resistance.
Despite Abbott’s efforts, Australia could not mount a comeback, as Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin continued to wreak havoc. Cameron Green was run out, and Adam Zampa fell to Jadeja, ending Australia’s innings at 217 in 28.2 overs.
India’s comprehensive victory in the second ODI highlighted their dominance in both batting and bowling just two weeks before the start of the World Cup 2023.
India’s 2-0 series lead puts them in a commanding position as they look forward to the final match of the series, with Australia eager to bounce back and salvage some pride.
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