Fifties from Rohit Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane and Hardik Pandya led India to a five-wicket win over Australia in the third ODI at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday. With the win, India clinched the five-match ODI series and also claimed the world No. 1 ranking. India are now No. 1 in both ODIs and tests.
Congratulations India on a wonderful series victory. Great 3 70’s from Rohit, Rahane, Hardik.
Comprehensive performance throughout #INDvAUS— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) September 24, 2017
Pandya, who was promoted higher up the order to bat at No. 4 grabbed the opportunity with both hands as he hit a crucial 78 off 72 balls to help the hosts chase down 294 with 13 balls to spare and take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the series.
Earlier openers Rohit, who made 71, and Rahane, who scored 70, put together a 139-run stand to lay a solid foundation for the team’s comfortable win.
Aussie skipper Steve Smith would be bitterly disappointed with the result. His team squandered a golden chance to make a comeback in the series after opener Aaron Finch smashed 124 from 125 balls to give them a bright start. Smith provided the required support with his 63 off 71 balls. But a middle-order collapse allowed Indian bowlers to restrict the visitors under 300.