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Virat Kohli and his ability to chase down targets has consistently been India's saving grace. Whether it was a decade ago or now, Kohli's prowess in run-chases remains unmatched. On Sunday (October 8), during India's opening match of the ODI World Cup against Australia, the Men in Blue found themselves in a tight spot at 2/3. The situation could have worsened to 20/4 had Mitchell Marsh not dropped a crucial catch in the eighth over. Kohli seized this opportunity and made the Australians rue their error.
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Kohli, alongside KL Rahul, steadied the ship. Given the modest target of 200, they had the luxury to pace their innings. By the end of the 17th over, India had accumulated just 56 runs. However, the duo recognised the importance of building a partnership. As the innings progressed, Kohli began to dominate, reaching his half-century off 75 balls and then accelerating with a flurry of boundaries.
Soon, he was cruising in the 80s, and a 78th ODI century seemed imminent. But Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier been denied Kohli's wicket due to the dropped catch, finally dismissed the former Indian skipper for 85. Given the dire situation India was in when Kohli arrived and where they stood upon his departure, his innings felt as valuable as a century.
Kohli's disappointment at missing out on a ton was evident. A viral video captured him in the dressing room, visibly frustrated, hitting his head with his hands. He then appeared to watch a replay of his dismissal, shaking his head in disbelief.
Post Kohli's exit, the stage was set for Rahul to lead India to victory. He took his time but finished the game in style for India, taking charge as he hit the ball for a six to give the team a crucial two points.
Earlier, India's top-order was left reeling by the fierce bowling of pacers Mitchell Starc and Hazlewood, finding themselves in a precarious position at 2/3. The situation became dire early in India's chase, with the scoreboard reflecting a dismal 2 for 3. Key players like Captain Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Shreyas Iyer were dispatched to the pavilion without scoring, all falling victim to the formidable duo of Starc and Hazlewood.
This challenging start for India came on the heels of an impressive bowling display where Indian spinners claimed six wickets, restricting Australia to just 200 runs.
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