IND vs AUS 2023 [WATCH]: Virat Kohli smacks Mitchell Starc for a stunning six in the third ODI

Despite losing the final clash by 66 runs in Rajkot on Wednesday, India won the three-match ODI series (2-1) against Australia.

The third ODI marked the return of the regular skipper Rohit Sharma alongside Virat Kohli and Kuldeep Yadav, who were rested for the first two encounters as a part of team strategy after India’s triumphant Asia Cup 2023 campaign.

Australia came out to bat first after winning the toss in the high-octane clash. The opening duo of David Warner (56) and Mitchell Marsh (96) laid a solid foundation for the hosts, followed by blistering knocks of Steve Smith (74) and Marnus Labuschagne (72), leadin💙g the Aussies to a massive total of 352 runs in 50 overs.

Rohit alongside Washington Sundar (18) kicked off the chase in style by playing a thumping knock of 81 runs. Batters Virat (56) and Shreyas Iyer (48) also played hefty knocks, but the Men in Blue kept losing wick🅺ets at regular🐈 intervals, eventually getting bundled up for 286 and loosing the game.

Also READ: ‘Pretty clear in our mind, 🎀not confused’: Rohit Sharma on Team I🅷ndia squad for the ODI World Cup 2023

Kohli’s spendid six off Mitchell Starc

On the third delivery of the 20th over, Starc executed a slower delivery just outside the off-stump, registering a speed of 127.9 kmph. With keen anticipation, Virat confidently moved down the wicket and elegantly struck the ball with a graceful swing of his bat. The ball sailed straight over the fielder stationed at mid-off and travelled an impressive distance. It was a brilliant display of the 34-year-old’s batting masterclass.

Here is the video:

Lofted to perfection 😎

Virat Kohli smacks one straight down the ground in some style! |♉ |

— BCCI (@BCCI)

Virat’s remarkable innings, scoring 56 runs, not only signified his 66th half-century in the ODIs but also his astonishing 113th fifty-plus score in the same format of the game. The right-handed batter’s performance against Australia included placing five boundaries and a spectacular six.

Notably, India will be playing their warm-up matches against England and the Netherlands on September and October 3, respectively. The Rohit-led side will take on Australia on October 8 in their opening fixture of the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023.

Also READ: ODI World Cup 2023 – Warm-up fixtures full schedule; When and Where to watch in India, US, UK, and other countries