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[Saba Sports News] In the fifth match of the ongoing ODI World Cup, India and Australia faced off on a challenging batting surface in Chennai on Sunday, October 8. While chasing a tricky 200-run target, India faced early struggles, losing their first three wickets with only two runs on the scoreboard. In the eighth over, Virat Kohli provided a simple catch opportunity to Mitchell Marsh off Josh Hazlewood’s delivery. However, the all-rounder failed to secure the catch, giving Kohli a lifeline.
Kohli took advantage of the reprieve, forming an impressive 165-run partnership with KL Rahul (97* off 115 balls) to guide India toward a crucial victory. Kohli eventually departed after compiling a well-crafted 85 off 116 balls, but by then, the match was already beyond Australia’s reach. Hardik Pandya and Rahul ensured India’s victory with 52 deliveries to spare and six wickets in hand. Had Marsh held onto Kohli’s catch early in his innings, the outcome could have been different.
Indian fans recognized the significance of the dropped catch, celebrating the moment at the stadium, while others expressed their excitement on social media. Granting a second chance to a player of Kohli’s caliber during a run-chase is far from ideal, and Australia came to regret the missed opportunity.
Earlier in the day, during the ODI World Cup 2023 encounter, the Australian batsmen struggled as they were bowled out for 199 on a dry, spinner-friendly wicket. David Warner (41) and Steve Smith (46) forged a 69-run partnership, but the other Australian batsmen found it challenging to adapt to the sluggish surface. Ravindra Jadeja excelled with the ball, taking a three-wicket haul. All six Indian bowlers who participated in the match claimed at least one wicket.
This victory provides India with significant momentum as they prepare to face Afghanistan on Wednesday before their highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on October 14.