Xtra Time Web Desk: Hundreds from Shubman Gill (104 off 97) and Shreyas Iyer (105 off 90) followed by a superb bowling performance from Ravichandran Ashwin (3/41) saw India securing a resounding 99-run victory over Australia through the DLS Method in the second ODI held at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore. This victory also allowed India to claim the ODI series 2-0 with one match left to play, and it carried an even more significant consequence as it propelled India to the No.1 ranking in ODIs, setting the stage for their entry into the World Cup 2023.
India’s innings began on a strong note after winning the toss, amassing a formidable total of 399 runs for the loss of five wickets. Despite an early setback with Ruturaj Gaikwad’s dismissal, the partnership of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, worth 200 runs for the second wicket, put India firmly in control. Both Gill and Shreyas went on to achieve centuries, leaving the Australian bowlers searching for answers.
Following their dismissals, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan took up the mantle, with Rahul scoring 52 off 38 balls and Kishan contributing 31 off 18 balls. Suryakumar Yadav played a pivotal role, remaining unbeaten with an explosive 72 off just 37 balls, including six fours and six sixes, further boosting India’s total. However, Cameron Green, despite taking two wickets, was costly, conceding 103 runs and being hit for four consecutive sixes by Suryakumar.
Australia faced an uphill battle in their chase, losing early wickets with Matthew Short and Steve Smith falling to Prasidh Krishna. Rain interrupted play in the 10th over, leading to a revised target of 317 runs in 33 overs for the Australians when the match resumed. David Warner managed to score 53 off 39 balls before being dismissed LBW by R Ashwin, who also claimed the wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis. Although Cameron Green contributed with the bat, he was run out at the striker’s end.
In the end, Sean Abbott and Josh Hazlewood put up a valiant effort, adding 77 runs for the ninth wicket, but it wasn’t enough as India’s dominant performance secured their series win and the No.1 ODI ranking. Sean Abbott showcased his skills, scoring 54 runs off 36 balls, featuring four fours and five sixes.
