The Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed a masterclass as India fought to avoid a series whitewash against Australia in the third ODI. After Harshit Rana’s career-best bowling figures of 4 for 39 helped restrict Australia to 236, the spotlight turned to India’s batting legends.
Rohit Sharma’s Century Match Summary
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Sydney Cricket Ground |
| Date | October 25, 2025 |
| Series Score | Australia 2-0 (before match) |
| Australia Total | 236 all out (46.4 overs) |
| India Score | 171/1 (28 overs, ongoing) |
| Top Scorer (AUS) | Matt Renshaw (maiden ODI fifty) |
| Best Bowler (IND) | Harshit Rana (4/39) |
Rana’s Bowling Masterclass Restricts Australia
Australia’s top six batsmen all passed 20 runs, but none converted their starts into substantial scores as they collapsed from 183 for 3 in the 34th over, losing 4 for 18 in a dramatic middle-order collapse. The hosts struggled to build momentum despite Matt Renshaw making his maiden ODI half-century.
The Indian bowling attack showed excellent discipline, with Washington Sundar bowling with superb control for his 2 for 44, conceding just one boundary in 10 overs, while Axar Patel was economical at 18 runs in six overs. The partnership between bowlers proved crucial as Australia lost their last seven wickets for 53 runs and left 20 deliveries unused in their innings.
Rohit-Kohli Partnership Steals the Show
The chase brought together two of cricket’s modern greats in what could be their final appearance on Australian soil. Rohit Sharma reached his 33rd ODI century, with the entire stadium erupting as the former India captain celebrated with fellow senior pro Virat Kohli.
After losing just one wicket at 69 for 1, the veteran duo took control of the chase. The partnership showcased experience and class, building steadily toward the modest target of 237.
India’s Bowling Changes Pay Off
Team India made tactical adjustments to their lineup with Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (captain), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna featuring in the playing XI. The inclusion of an extra bowling option strengthened India’s attack significantly.
Series Context and Records at Stake
India have never been swept in a bilateral ODI series against Australia, making this match crucial for maintaining that proud record. The visitors, having already lost the series 0-2, were determined to salvage pride with a consolation victory.
For Australia, the match presented an opportunity to achieve their first ODI series whitewash against India. The hosts made several changes, with Josh Inglis rejoining the squad after recovering from a calf strain, while Marnus Labuschagne dropped out to return to Brisbane ahead of Queensland’s Sheffield Shield match.
What This Match Means
Beyond statistics and records, this encounter held emotional significance. For Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, this could mark their final ODI appearance in Australia—a country where both legends have created countless memories. Their partnership in Sydney served as a fitting testament to their enduring class and determination.
The match also provided valuable momentum for India ahead of their upcoming T20I series, while Australia’s bowling and fielding strategies were tested by two of the game’s finest batsmen.
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For complete match details and ball-by-ball commentary, visit ESPN Cricinfo
FAQs
Q1: What was Harshit Rana’s best bowling figures in the 3rd ODI?
Harshit Rana recorded career-best bowling figures of 4 wickets for 39 runs, playing a pivotal role in restricting Australia to 236 runs. His performance came at a crucial time as Australia suffered a middle-order collapse.
Q2: How many ODI centuries does Rohit Sharma have now?
Rohit Sharma scored his 33rd ODI century during the chase at Sydney Cricket Ground. This milestone came in what could be his final ODI appearance on Australian soil, making it an emotionally significant achievement for the veteran opener.
