In a performance that felt like a nostalgic encore and a statement of intent all at once, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli lit up the Sydney Cricket Ground to deny Australia a series clean sweep. India’s nine-wicket demolition in the third ODI wasn’t just a win—it was a masterclass in controlled aggression and legacy-building .
Rohit Sharma’s 33rd ODI Century: Vintage and Vital
Rohit Sharma, often called the ‘Hitman,’ played one of his most composed ODI knocks in recent memory. His unbeaten 121 off 114 balls—his 33rd ODI century—was a blend of elegance and authority. With 10 boundaries and 5 sixes, Sharma dismantled Australia’s bowling attack while pacing the chase to perfection. More importantly, he ensured India avoided a humiliating whitewash on foreign soil .
Virat Kohli Makes History En Route to Victory
Batting alongside his long-time partner, Virat Kohli notched an effortless 74* and, in doing so, crossed a monumental milestone: he surpassed Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara to become the fourth-highest run-scorer in ODI history. With over 13,500 runs and counting, Kohli’s hunger remains undimmed—even as critics questioned his form just months ago .
Bowling Sets the Stage: Harshit Rana Leads the Charge
Before the Ro-Ko fireworks, India’s bowlers laid a solid foundation. On a pitch offering early movement, debutant Harshit Rana impressed with sharp pace and clever variations, finishing with key breakthroughs. Supported by Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, India bundled out Australia for a modest 236 in 49.3 overs—well below par at the SCG .
The Unbroken 168-Run Stand That Sealed It
After losing Yashasvi Jaiswal early, Sharma and Kohli walked in and never looked back. Their unbroken 168-run partnership wasn’t just match-winning—it was emotionally resonant. Fans chanted “Ro-Ko! Ro-Ko!” as the duo shared smiles, fist bumps, and a sense of shared purpose. In an era of constant churn, this felt like a rare moment of timeless cricketing harmony.
By the Numbers: India’s Dominant Win
| Team | Total | Overs | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | 236 all out | 49.3 | — |
| India | 239/1 | 38.4 | Won by 9 wickets |
What This Win Means for Team India
While the series was lost 2-1, this victory restores belief ahead of the Champions Trophy and the 2027 World Cup cycle. It proves that even as India integrates young talent, its core veterans can still deliver under pressure. For Rohit and Kohli—both in their mid-30s—this innings may not be their last, but it’s a powerful reminder of their enduring class.
Sources
Times of India: Sydney Showstoppers! Ro-Ko deny Australia clean sweep; India win third ODI