Sydney, October 25 (Sports Desk):
India’s young pacer Harshit Rana delivered a sensational performance in the 3rd ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, helping India bowl out the hosts for 236 runs in just 46.4 overs. With his fiery spell of 4 wickets for 39 runs, Rana dismantled Australia’s middle and lower order, giving India a perfect opportunity to finish the series on a high note.
Australia’s innings: A strong start but a sudden collapse
After winning the toss and opting to bat first, Australia began confidently with Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head building a solid opening stand. The duo looked dangerous before Mohammed Siraj struck the first blow by dismissing Head for 29. Soon after, Axar Patel removed Marsh for 41, halting Australia’s early momentum.
Matthew Short and Matt Renshaw tried to rebuild the innings, with Renshaw reaching a gritty half-century. However, the turning point came when Washington Sundar dismissed Renshaw for 56, followed by Harshit Rana’s fiery burst that blew away the lower order.
Rana’s pace, accuracy, and sharp bouncers proved too hot to handle for the Australian batters. He dismissed Alex Carey, Mitchell Owen, Cooper Connolly, and Josh Hazlewood, finishing with match-winning figures of 4/39 in 8 overs.
India’s fightback after early setbacks
After losing the first two matches of the three-match ODI series, Team India came into the final ODI with determination. Led by Rohit Sharma, India’s bowlers showed aggression and control, restricting Australia’s scoring opportunities.
Kuldeep Yadav, Washington Sundar, and Prasidh Krishna also contributed with crucial wickets, while Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer displayed sharp fielding efforts that turned the momentum India’s way.
Harshit Rana — India’s next pace sensation
The 23-year-old pacer’s performance drew massive attention from fans and experts alike. With his ability to generate bounce and movement on Australian pitches, Rana showcased why he is being considered one of India’s most promising fast-bowling talents. His spell not only restricted Australia to a modest total but also gave India a real chance to avoid a whitewash in the series.
Australia 3rd ODI Scorecard Summary
- Australia: 236 all out (46.4 overs)
- Top scorers: Matt Renshaw 56, Mitchell Marsh 41, Matthew Short 30
- Top Indian bowlers: Harshit Rana 4/39, Washington Sundar 2/45, Mohammed Siraj 1/38
What’s Next?
India now needs 237 runs to win and finish the series on a positive note. All eyes are on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, as this could be their final outing on Australian soil in this series
