Rohit Sharma hits 50th Century, Kohli anchors India to consolation win over Australia

Rohit Sharma scores his 50th international century, and Virat Kohli plays a masterful knock to lead India to a nine-wicket win in the third ODI against Australia in Sydney, preventing a whitewash and claiming a consolation victory

Sydney: In what could be their final appearance on Australian soil, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli turned back the clock with vintage performances to lead India to a dominant nine-wicket win over Australia in the third and final ODI at the SCG on Saturday. The victory was a consolation for India, who lost the series 2-1, but it was a fitting tribute to two of the country’s most prolific cricketers.

Rohit Sharma Hits 50th International Century

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Rohit Sharma reached a significant milestone, scoring his 50th international century, as he guided India to the target of 237 with an unbeaten 121. His partnership with Virat Kohli (74 not out) was the highlight of the chase, as the two batsmen stitched together a commanding 168-run stand for the second wicket. The partnership ended the match in just 38.3 overs, with India cruising to victory.

Rohit’s innings was a masterclass in stroke-making. Starting with a couple of exquisite drives and flicks off Mitchell Starc, he found his rhythm early and continued to dominate the Australian attack. Once Adam Zampa was introduced, Rohit dealt with the spinner in his usual aggressive manner, including a majestic slog-sweep six and an elegant inside-out six over cover.

Virat Kohli Plays Calculated Knock

While Rohit was the aggressor, Virat Kohli was the anchor, playing a well-paced knock. After a couple of early setbacks, including surviving a close DRS call on 36, Kohli settled in and kept the scoreboard ticking. He found his timing and rhythm, playing trademark drives and occasional boundaries. His fifty came off 56 balls, and he played a key role in guiding India to a successful chase, with the winning runs coming in the 38th over.

Kohli’s knock was a blend of patience and precision, and his chemistry with Rohit was on full display, with both players keeping the momentum in India’s favor throughout their chase.

Australia Struggles with the Bat

Earlier, India’s bowlers, led by Harshit Rana (4/39), restricted Australia to a modest 236. The Indian bowlers produced an all-round performance, with the pace attack and spinners suffocating the Australian batting. Mitchell Marsh (41) and Travis Head (29) provided a solid start with a 61-run opening partnership, but once Head departed, Australia struggled to build partnerships.

Despite a fighting **56 from Renshaw, the Australian middle order couldn’t consolidate, and India’s fielding was sharp, with some brilliant catches — notably Virat Kohli’s reflex catch at backward point to dismiss Matthew Short and a diving catch from Shreyas Iyer to remove Alex Carey.

Key Moments:

Rohit Sharma’s 50th international century marks a major career milestone.

Virat Kohli’s composed knock guides India to victory in the series-deciding third ODI.

Harshit Rana shines with the ball, claiming 4 wickets in Australia’s sub-par total of 236.

India’s sharp fielding included two stunning catches from Kohli and Shreyas Iyer.

Rohit and Kohli’s 168-run partnership clinches the victory with 70 balls to spare.

India’s Performance in the Series:

Although India lost the series 2-1, the win in the final ODI provided a sense of redemption. The team’s dominant performance in the third match prevented a whitewash and showcased the depth and resilience of India’s cricketing talents.

Final Scorecard:

Australia: 236 all out (49.5 overs)
India: 237/1 (38.3 overs)

India won by 9 wickets.