Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul stitched a 68-run opening partnership and the former went on to score a magnificent half-century as Team India chased down 153 runs in 17.5 overs against Australia in their second warm-up game of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021.
Rohit, who didn't play in the first game against England, not just came into the side, but also was leading the side as Virat Kohli chose not to bat but was just going to field and even bowled a couple of overs. He led his troops exceptionally in the field and did fine bowling changes while giving every single of the six bowlers a decent run.
Ravichandran Ashwin dented Australia early with a double blow removing David Warner and Mitchell Marsh in consecutive deliveries. Ravindra Jadeja from the other end, dismissed Australian skipper Aaron Finch and the men in yellow were 11/3.
Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell stabilised the innings, the former went on to score a fifty. Marcus Stoinis coming in at No 6 gave them the required push remaining unbeaten on 41 runs off just 25 balls as Australia did well to reach 152.
Rohit and Rahul started off very watchfully since the target wasn't a daunting one. Both then took off and with calculative risks helped India get their innings forward. Rahul after a few dot balls in his 30s got restless and gave his wicket away, it was the first and the last breakthrough that Australia got.
Rohit went on to complete his well-compiled half-century as the astonishing stroke play was back, while Suryakumar Yadav batting at No 3 was back in his groove as well, staying unbeaten on 38 off 27 balls. Hardik Pandya provided the finishing touches as India got over the line with 13 balls to spare.
India won both their warm-up games and look set for their opening game of the tournament against Pakistan.
