Rohits Century Kohlis Unbeaten 74 Help India Avoid Whitewash in Australia

India finally avoided a whitewash in the series, sealing a convincing nine-wicket win over Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. In what was possibly their last match on Australian soil, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli delivered a masterclass in front of 40,000 spectators — a fitting reminder of their enduring brilliance.

Rohit, who scored 73 in the previous game, notched up his 33rd ODI century, reaching the mark off 105 balls — his ninth ton against Australia. At the other end, Kohli, who had suffered consecutive ducks in the first two matches, roared back to form with an unbeaten 74. The duo shared an unbroken 168-run stand off 170 balls, steering India past Australia’s 237-run target in style.

Australia, after a steady start at 183 for 3, collapsed to 236 all out. Matt Renshaw top-scored with his maiden ODI fifty, but none of the other batters managed to convert their starts. India’s young pacer Harshit Rana shone with a career-best 4 for 39, while the spin trio kept things tight throughout.

Rohit and Shubman Gill provided India with a solid platform early on, and when Gill fell, the crowd erupted as Kohli walked in. He instantly set the tone, driving the first ball he faced for four. Rohit, meanwhile, showcased his signature elegance, dispatching boundaries with effortless ease.

Among Australia’s bowlers, Josh Hazlewood was the lone bright spot, maintaining discipline while others struggled. Skipper Mitchell Marsh had opted to bat first after winning the toss, but despite quick runs from himself and Travis Head, the innings lost momentum in the middle overs.

Renshaw and Alex Carey tried to rebuild but departed in quick succession — with Shreyas Iyer taking a stunning catch before leaving the field injured. Rana and the spinners then wrapped up the tail, dismissing Australia with 20 balls to spare.

In the end, all eyes were on Rohit and Kohli. Sharing smiles and mutual nods, the two legends finished the chase — Rohit reaching his hundred with a serene cover drive, and Kohli gliding the winning run to fine leg.

On what may have been their farewell performance in Australia, the iconic duo signed off in style — closing an emotional and unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket.