The first match of the three-game ODI series between India and Australia saw a low-scoring nail-biter between the two sides as Hardik Pandya-led India managed to beat Australia by a narrow margin of 4 wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the series.
After winning the toss the Indian skipper Hardik Pandya decided to have a go with the ball first. The decision did not help the team at first despite dismissing Travis Head early as Mitch Marsh provided Australia with the platform smashing 81 runs off just 65 deliveries.
However, the Indian bowlers led by Mohammed Shami helped the side get the breakthrough as Shami alongside Mohammed Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja ripped through the Aussie batting picking 8 wickets between themselves while skipper Hardik Pandya had a single wicket to his name.
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With just 189 runs to chase, it felt like it would be an easy task for India but Australia were not ready to give in so early as Mitchell Starc ripped through the Indian top-order reducing India to 39/4 in 11 overs.
Hardik Pandya alongside KL Rahul put up an important 44 runs partnership for the 5th wicket that brought India back into the game. However, before the two could do much more damage it was Marcus Stoinis who struck dismissing Hardik Pandya at a personal score of 25.
KL Rahul stood tall for India after Hardik Pandya’s dismissal as he crossed the fifty-run mark, he was well supported by Ravindra Jadeja as the two kept it tight for the hosts and comfortably crossed the target on the board.
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We Were Under Pressure: Hardik Pandya
India’s skipper Hardik Pandya who was present with the broadcasters during the post-match presentation talked about the tough win against Australia as he praised his players to stand and bat despite the pressure.
“Yeah, absolutely we were under pressure both while bowling and batting. We found ways to comeback into the game. Once we got the momentum, we did well to finish it off. I am really proud of the team, which created many opportunities and to take them with both hands on the field was grateful to see. You know that catch from Jadeja off Labuschagne was electrifying.”
“See Jaddu (Jadeja) is making a comeback in the ODI set-up after 8 months. We wanted somebody to stick around KL (Rahul) and Jaddu did exactly the same to stay there and finish the job for us. (On his bowling) I was enjoying my bowling. Overall, a very good victory.
With a 1-0 lead over Australia in the series, India will now look to go 2-0 in the upcoming fixture on the 19th of March. The team will be boosted with the return of Rohit Sharma who will be available for the 2nd and 3rd ODI after returning from his short break.
Also Read: IND vs AUS: “We Needed A Few More Runs”- Steve Smith Laments Loss Against India In The 1st ODI
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