India vs Australia, World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli, KL Rahul inspire Men in Blue to six-wicket win in Chennai

Virat Kohli and KL Rahul starred with the bat on Sunday as India defeated Australia by six wickets in Chennai, to open their 2023 ODI World Cup campaign with a win.

It was a comeback of sorts from the Men in Blue as they were 2 for 3 at one stage, following the wickets of Ishan Kishan. Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer, all of whom were dismissed for ducks.

However, it was a 165-run stand between Kohli and Rahul for fourth wicket that set India the platform for victory.

Kohli was eventually dismissed by Josh Hazlewood in the 38^th over. Hardik Pandya came into bat at number six and played a vital cameo to guide India home.

Despite a slow and shaking start early on, Kohli and Rahul led the charge as India cruised to 200 from 41.2 overs. Time was running out for the Aussies at this point and it was only a matter of time before the Men in Blue sealed victory.

India eventually needed just five runs to win from nine overs. Pat Cummins bowled the 42nd over. He started off with a dot ball, before Rahul slammed one over the cover region for a six, to eventually finish the match and remain unbeaten on 97.

Having opted to bat first, Australia were all out for 199 in 49.3 overs following an all-round show from the Indian bowlers. Jasprit Bumrah had dismissed Mitchell Marsh early on, before David Warner and Steve Smith forged a 69-run stand for the second wicket.

However, both the batters were soon dismissed in their 40s by spinners. While Warner was caught and bowled by Kuldeep Yadav, Jadeja cleaned up Smith with an unplayable delivery.

More to follow