Kohli, Sharma reflect on vintage batsmanship after consolation win

FOLLOWING India’s dominant nine-wicket win over Australia in the third ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground, senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma shared heartfelt reflections on their longstanding partnership, adding that the enjoyment of playing cricket together has meant they have been able to stitch memorable stands.

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Yesterday, Rohit’s strokeplay was crisp in hitting 13 fours and three sixes in his 121 not out off 125 balls — his 33rd century in the format. Kohli’s composure was unwavering in hitting an unbeaten 74 off 81 deliveries, laced with seven boundaries, and he became the second-highest run-getter in ODIs.

Together, the duo stitched an unbeaten 168-run partnership in an absolute chasing masterclass and ensured India ended the series with a statement win by completing a chase of 237 with 11.3 overs to spare and avoiding a clean sweep defeat to Australia.

“Good to be out of the pond, honestly (after consecutive ducks). You've scored so many runs in international cricket, but then the game shows you everything, even at this stage. Almost 37 in not many days, and I still cannot feel like I don't know how to get a run. I mean, this game is amazing. That's why we love batting; we love batsmanship. It's so challenging when it's not going your way.”