Kohli and Rahul Power India to Victorious Start in Cricket World Cup 2023

In an enthralling showdown, India conquered an early batting collapse against Australia to clinch a six-wicket win in their opening match at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.

Facing a challenging target of 200, India stumbled at the beginning, losing three wickets for just two runs. Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharma, and Shreyas Iyer fell quickly, putting India on the back foot.

However, the stellar partnership between Virat Kohli and KL Rahul turned the tide. They forged a resilient 165-run partnership for the fourth wicket, steadying India’s chase. Kohli, despite a reprieve on 12, orchestrated a well-crafted 85, while Rahul’s unbeaten 97 ensured India’s commanding victory.

Earlier, Australia’s innings was propped up by a 69-run alliance between David Warner and Steve Smith. However, India’s spinners, particularly Ravindra Jadeja (3/28), Kuldeep Yadav (2/42), and Ravichandran Ashwin (1/34), asserted control, limiting Australia to a modest total.

India’s initial woes were alleviated by Kohli and Rahul’s partnership, constituting India’s highest partnership against Australia in a World Cup match and the highest for India in a World Cup for the fourth wicket.

Hardik Pandya’s arrival spurred India’s momentum, culminating in their triumph in the 42nd over. The team, despite an adverse start, showcased resilience and determination, delivering a significant victory in their tournament opener.

The match witnessed a turbulent start for India as they lost three crucial wickets within two overs. However, Kohli and Rahul’s composed partnership, backed by stellar bowling performances, sealed India’s emphatic win against Australia in the enthralling encounter.

India’s XI included Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj. Australia fielded David Warner, Mitch Marsh, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, and Josh Hazlewood in their playing XI.

The thrilling win propels India with confidence as they set their sights on their upcoming encounters in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.