In a triumphant return to the ODI team, the versatile Glenn Maxwell delivered a stellar performance, achieving his career-best figures of 4-40. This outstanding display played a crucial role as Australia secured a 66-run victory over India in the final match of the ODI series at SCA Stadium on Wednesday.
In the third and final ODI held in Rajkot, India aimed for a clean sweep against Australia. Pat Cummins, returning to lead the team after resting for the second ODI, won the toss and opted to bat first.
Australia got off to a strong start with David Warner (56) and Mitchell Marsh (96), who forged a partnership of 78 runs for the opening wicket. Marsh went on to compile 137 runs alongside Steve Smith (74). However, once these two key batsmen were dismissed, the Indian bowlers intensified their efforts, applying pressure and slowing down the scoring rate.
Despite an impressive 72-ball innings by Marnus Labuschagne, Australia could only post a total of 352/7. Jasprit Bumrah shone with the ball, taking 3/81 for India, while Kuldeep Yadav contributed with 2/48.
In reply, Rohit Sharma’s brilliant batting display saw him score 81 runs off just 56 deliveries, featuring 6 sixes and 5 fours. Rohit, along with Washington Sundar, who was opening the batting for the first time and scored 18 runs, formed a solid partnership of 74 runs for the first wicket.
Virat Kohli (56), Shreyas Iyer (48), and KL Rahul (26) all made promising starts but couldn’t sustain their innings due to the required high run rate. Ravindra Jadeja chipped in with a 35-run knock to narrow the margin of defeat, but India was eventually bowled out for 286 runs.
Australia’s Glenn Maxwell displayed a remarkable bowling performance, claiming 4/40, which played a pivotal role in their 66-run victory. This win also ended Australia’s five-game losing streak.
The result meant Australia broke their five-match losing streak in ODIs, though India won the series 2-1.
