Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli powered India to a resounding nine-wicket victory over Australia in the third and final ODI on Saturday at the Sydney Cricket Ground, helping the visitors avoid a series whitewash in style. Chasing a total of 236, Rohit Sharma led from the front with an unbeaten 121 off 125 balls, while Virat Kohli marked a stunning return to form with a composed 74 not out. The duo put on an unbeaten 168-run partnership, much to the delight of the strong contingent of Indian fans in the stands.
Kohli, who had endured two consecutive ducks in the previous two matches, silenced his critics with a fluent innings filled with impeccable shots. Rohit, on the other hand, looked in complete command from the outset, dispatching the Australian bowlers to all parts of the ground with his trademark authority. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma slammed his 33rd hundred in ODIs, bringing it up from only 105 balls.
Earlier in the day, Australia, after choosing to bat first, remained poor despite a solid start. At one stage, the hosts were comfortably placed at 3-183 in the 34th over, with hopes of posting a competitive total. However, a dramatic collapse saw them lose their last seven wickets for just 53 runs, folding for 236 in 47 overs. Matt Renshaw was the standout performer for Australia, top-scoring with a well-crafted 56. Indian bowler Harshit Rana was highly impressive with the ball, living up to the expectations and returning with the figures of 4-39 in 8.4 overs.