IND vs AUS Review: KL Rahul – Kohli secure India’s opening win

India and Australia faced off in the highly anticipated fifth match of the ODI World Cup 2023 at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Australian captain Pat Cummins won the toss and chose to bat first, aware that Chepauk’s pitch becomes increasingly challenging for batters as the game progresses.

Australia got off to a shaky start as Mitchell Marsh fell victim to Jasprit Bumrah’s exceptional outswing delivery, offering a straightforward catch to Virat Kohli in the slip cordon. However, the experienced pair of David Warner and Steven Smith then joined forces, building a solid partnership of 69 runs before Warner was dismissed by Kuldeep Yadav’s skilful leg spin.

Smith also departed and from there on the Australian team lost wickets at regular intervals without any player making a significant contribution. They were eventually bowled out for a mere 199 runs in 49.3 overs, with Smith scoring 46 and Warner contributing 41. Ravindra Jadeja took three wickets for the Indian team, while Kuldeep Yadav and Bumrah claimed two wickets each.

Chasing the target of 200, the Indian team had a disastrous start, losing three wickets with just two runs on the board. At that moment, the Australian team may well have fancied a chance to defend the target. However, at a score of 12 runs, Mitchell Marsh dropped a straightforward catch of Virat Kohli, which turned out to be the match’s turning point.

After this fortunate escape, Kohli formed a brilliant partnership with KL Rahul, stabilising the Indian innings and leading them to victory with six wickets remaining. Kohli scored 85 runs while KL Rahul contributed an impressive 97 runs. India emerged triumphant by six wickets and 52 balls to spare.

Top Performers of the Match

Best Batter

KL Rahul (97* of 115)

On a pitch that looked quite difficult for the batters, KL Rahul showcased his class and stitched a vital partnership with Virat Kohli to help India win the match. He showcased real patience early on and once got settled in, he smashed the Aussies bowlers all around the park to be the best batter of the match.

Best Bowler

Ravindra Jadeja (3/28, 10 overs)

Star Indian allrounder Ravindra Jadeja showcased his real class on a wicket which was supporting the spin bowlers. His spin and guile were too hot for the Aussies to handle and they could not play him under pressure. Jadeja took three crucial wickets to become the best bowler of the match.

What next?

Going ahead, India will play against Afghanistan on October 11 while Australia will take on South Africa on October 12