In a gripping showdown at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, India clinched a thrilling victory in their opening encounter of the World Cup against arch-rivals Australia. Facing a target of 200 runs, India overcame a shaky start, eventually securing the win in the 42nd over with six wickets in hand, all credits to KL Rahul’s exceptional, unbeaten innings.
Early Wobbles
India’s run chase began on a turbulent note, losing key players Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Shreyas Iyer without contributing a single run. The team found itself at 18/3 within six overs, raising concerns among the fans (Read Below at Early blunder of team India)
Rahul and Kohli’s Resilience
Amidst the early setbacks, KL Rahul, alongside the seasoned Virat Kohli, showcased remarkable resilience. Their partnership of 165 runs not only steadied the ship but also shifted the game’s momentum in India’s favor. Kohli’s contribution of 85 runs played a pivotal role in India’s recovery.
Hardik Pandya’s Blitz
As India approached the target, Hardik Pandya emerged as a game-changer, displaying his aggressive intent. His powerful strokes, including a crucial six, propelled India closer to victory. Pandya’s aggressive approach brought India within striking distance, amplifying the excitement on the field.
Rahul’s Heroic Finish
KL Rahul, the backbone of India’s chase, remained unbeaten at 97 off 115 balls. With just 18 runs needed, he smashed a match-winning six, steering India to victory in the 42nd over. His stellar performance not only secured the win but also bolstered India’s position in the points table, placing them at the 5th spot.
This thrilling encounter highlighted India’s resilience and determination, setting the stage for an electrifying World Cup campaign. With this win, India has firmly announced their presence, signaling their readiness to face any challenge and emerge victorious.
Early blunder of team India
India was plunged into a dire situation, losing three vital wickets in rapid succession against a relentless Australian attack. The match, which had begun with great anticipation, quickly turned into a nightmare for the Indian team, who found themselves at a mere 5 runs on the scoreboard after the fall of three key wickets.
Ishan Kishan’s Debut Dismay
Ishan Kishan’s inaugural World Cup appearance turned out to be far from ideal. His dream start was shattered by a cunning delivery from Starc, luring him into a drive that resulted in an unfortunate edge straight into the waiting hands of Cam Green at slips. Kishan’s departure was swift and scoreless, leaving him to exit the pitch with disappointment etched on his face.
Rohit Sharma’s Lbw Misfortune
India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, faced a formidable challenge against Hazlewood’s deceptive inswinger. Caught off guard by the sharp inward movement, Rohit misjudged the delivery’s line, falling victim to an lbw dismissal. The Chepauk crowd fell silent as Rohit’s exit dealt a significant blow to India’s aspirations in the match.
Shreyas Iyer’s Ill-Fated Shot
India’s woes deepened with Shreyas Iyer’s ill-fated decision-making. Attempting to dispatch a seemingly innocuous wide delivery, Iyer’s aggressive shot found the waiting hands of Warner at covers. Hazlewood’s impeccable bowling left India reeling at 2-3, highlighting the team’s precarious predicament.
Australia’s bowlers, especially Hazlewood and Starc, showcased their mastery and precision, capitalizing on India’s vulnerability early in the game. As the match progressed, India found themselves embroiled in a challenging battle, desperately needing a robust recovery to salvage their position in this crucial World Cup clash.
Rohit Sharma, India captain
Pretty exciting. Good feeling to come out on top. It was a good game to start the tournament for us. I thought it was magnificent, especially the fielding and we saw the effort from everyone today, conditions like this it would be tough.
Our bowlers used the conditions perfectly and we knew there would be assistance for everyone, even the seamers got some reverse, the spinners bowled in the nice areas and all in all it was a great effort.
I was (nervous), you don’t want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussies bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase.
That is going to be the challenge for us as a team, moving to different conditions and adapting, whoever suits the conditions will have to come and do the job. Chennai never disappoints, they love their cricket and for them to sit in that heat and come out and cheer for the team says a lot.
Pat Cummins, Australia captain
At least 50-odd (short with the bat). It was tough, trying to defend anything under 200.. It was a really good bowling attack and their spinners made it tough work out there. I wasn’t too upset (with just two spinners), we had 20 overs of spin but some more runs on the board would have made the difference. I have already forgotten about it (the drop catch), it happens, 4/10 would have been a dream start.
He (Hazlewood) is a class bowler and poses a lot of questions, stays in that area and was fantastic today. We have to review this one, absolutely a tough surface, but what if we are up against it then how would we do differently. Just one game out of nine, not too much to ponder about but there are some areas we need to get better. No (in hindsight would he have changed his decision at the toss?).