In a superb display of veteran class, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli led India to a commanding nine-wicket victory over the Australian national cricket team in the third One-Day International at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Chasing a modest target of 237, India finished with more than 11 overs to spare, avoiding a series whitewash and ending the match on a high note.
Rohit smashed an unbeaten 121, his 33rd ODI hundred, crafting his innings with 13 fours and three sixes to underline his enduring dominance in the format. Kohli, meanwhile, showed signs of revival with a composed 74 not out, erasing concerns about his recent back-to-back ducks earlier in the series. Together, they stitched a powerful 168-run partnership that crushed Australia’s hopes.
Australia, having won the first two ODIs to clinch the series, faltered at 236 all out. The tail collapsed under pressure, losing seven wickets for just 53 runs after Matt Renshaw’s 56 showed early promise. India’s bowlers, including Harshit Rana (4-39), capitalized on the weakness and ensured the game never swung back.
For Rohit and Kohli, this match felt like a celebration of careers richly deserved — perhaps their final ODI outing on Australian soil. Rohit reflected on his long journey, saying the visit had been filled with good and bad memories, but he cherished every moment. Kohli shared a warm message to the fans and acknowledged how much playing in Australia had meant to him.
While the series result went Australia’s way, India’s emphatic win provided a timely reminder that experience and class still matter. Fans left the SCG remembering the “Ro-Ko” duo at their best — and hopeful for what both might still offer in the future.
