India made it two wins in as many games on Sunday. The Men in Blue were at the top of their game against defending champions Australia.
After winning the toss, Virat Kohli decided to bat first. Both Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan came out with a plan. They did not take any unnecessary risks and went on with their business.
The duo put up a century stand for the opening wicket. Virat Kohli then joined in the party and was the anchor for Indian innings till the fag end. Shikhar Dhawan went all guns blalzing and brought his first century in this world cup.
On the other hand, Hardik Pandya and MS Dhoni played around Virat Kohli. They ensured that India got the maximum runs available in the final overs. KL Rahul scored 11 runs in just 3 balls to help India cross 350 mark.
“A top, top win for us specially after losing that series in India. We had a point to prove against this side. We came here with intent right from ball one. The opening p’ship was outstanding. I got a few runs, Hardik the way he played and MS.”
After the batsmen, it was Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Jasprit Bumrah who put pressure on Australian openers at the start. Both the players bowled with discipline and kept runs at check.
“It was a brilliant start with the ball on a wicket that was quite flat. That always pleases you as a captain. You have to bowl well. You can’t take things for granted just because you have 350+ on the board.
India scored 116 runs in the final 10 overs which proved to be the ultimate difference on the day.
“That 30 runs gives you the luxury. One of the top three getting hundred. We decided to send Hardik to cash in, he could just hit from ball one.”
Asked about the prospect of seeing Mohammed Shami playing, Virat Kohli revealed that Shami could play only in overcast conditions. He heaped praise on Bhuvneshwar Kumar for the way he bowled in the game.
It was indeed Bhuvneshwar Kumar who turned the match towards India favor during the final phase. He dismissed Steven Smith and Marcus Stoinis in the same over and eliminated the threat for the final 10 overs.
“For us if Shami plays, it has to be overcast conditions and the pitch has to offer a lot. You can’t take Bhuvi’s performances in the one-day format for granted. He’s a champion bowler and picks up wickets with the new ball and with the old ball. It was a game changer (the wickets of Smith and Stoinis in the same over). “
India have put in a solid shift against Australia. They outdid the defending champions across all three departments. However, Virat Kohli & Co, do not have much time to relax. India will take on New Zealand on Thursday in yet another tough game.