Team India led by KL Rahul got off to a superb start to the three-match ODI series against Australia as they won the game by 5 wickets to take the first lead in the series. Australia had the psychological advantage over India ahead of the game, considering that they had won six games out of the seven played in Mohali. However, the Men in Blue ticked the boxes in the right areas and ensured to seal the deal.
Batting first, Australia posted a competitive total of 276 runs as David Warner top-scored with 52 runs. On the other side of the coin, India benefitted from the services of Mohammed Shami as the right-arm fast bowler ripped through the defence of Australia’s batting line-up to his five-wicket haul in ODIs. In response, India chased down the target in 48.4 overs. Shubman Gill top-scored with 74 runs for India.
Shreyas Iyer’s comeback innings marred by an unfortunate run-out
For Team India, the biggest unfulfilled potential has to be Shreyas Iyer, without any doubt. When he made his debut for the team across formats, he played quite sensibly and cemented his spot in the Indian team. However, in the recent past games, he hasn’t been able to dictate the terms. At the same time, injuries also marred his cricketing venture quite a bit.
When the fans expected him to see a lot of him in the first ODI against Australia, his comeback innings was marred by an unfortunate run-out. The right-handed batter came out to bat at No.3 and was trying to build a partnership with Shubman Gill before a mishap happened. Shreyas Iyer hit the ball towards the covers in search of a single but little did he know that he hit the ball near to Cameron Green.
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It proved to be a costly mistake by Iyer as the latter made a wrong call and also sprinted halfway down the track. Shubman Gill realized that he wouldn’t make it to the striker’s end so he refused the call. Iyer could have been a little more careful in this aspect and the unfortunate run-out literally ruined his comeback innings. Mohammed Shami was named the Man of the Match for his bowling masterclass.
The second ODI between India and Australia will get underway on September 24, Sunday at Holkar Cricket Stadium, Indore. It is a must-win game for the visitors to stay alive in the series whereas the Men in Blue will be looking forward to winning the game in an attempt to win the series.
