India and Australia, two titans of world cricket, faced off in Sydney for the third One-Day International on October 25, 2025. In a match that showcased the best of Indian batting and bowling artistry, India wins match with a resounding nine-wicket triumph, capping the series with a stirring consolation win even as the hosts lifted the trophy 2-1.
Australia, opting to bat first, managed 236 runs before being bowled out in 46.4 overs. Matt Renshaw anchored the innings with a well-crafted 56 off 58 balls, supported by Mitchell Marsh (41) and a handful of starts throughout their top order. However, Australia’s promising platform crumbled in the face of India’s disciplined bowling, most notably from Harshit Rana, who scalped 4 wickets for just 39 runs. After reaching 183/3, Australia stumbled through the final phase, losing regular wickets and failing to accelerate, as India’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure.
Apart from Rana, the Indian attack featured sharp spells from both pacers and spinners, with fielders supporting their bowlers with sharp catches and energetic ground coverage. The combined effort ensured Australia were left 40-50 runs short of a truly competitive total on a sluggish Sydney pitch.
Chasing a target of 237, India began on a cautious note but quickly settled into a rhythm. After losing Shubman Gill early to a probing delivery, Rohit Sharma (121* off 125 balls) and Virat Kohli (74* off 81 balls) took command. The duo tapped into their experience and exceptional shot selection, forging an unbeaten 169-run partnership that kept the scoreboard ticking and the pressure on Australian bowlers.
Sharma’s innings, studded with elegant drives and calculated risks, marked his 33rd ODI century—another feather in the captain’s already illustrious cap. Kohli, returning to form after two rare ducks, anchored his end with style and assurance, blending aggression with control. Together, their partnership dismantled Australian hopes for a series sweep and thrilled the crowd with strokes that illuminated Sydney’s evening.
India finished the chase in just 38.3 overs, losing only one wicket and cruising to a comprehensive win. The margin of victory highlighted not only the batting prowess of Team India but also the depth of their bowling unit.
With his match-winning century, Rohit Sharma was justly crowned Player of the Match as well as Player of the Series. His consistent performances have set the tone for India’s white-ball approach, underscoring his leadership and batting excellence.
Though Australia clinched the three-match series 2-1, India’s third ODI victory was more than consolation – it was a statement of intent. The anticipation now turns to the five-match T20I series set to begin in Canberra on October 29, where both teams will look to build form ahead of the ICC global events.
India’s emphatic win in the third ODI at Sydney blended brilliant bowling, sharp fielding, and a vintage partnership from two cricketing greats. With Sharma and Kohli setting the benchmark, and the bowling unit keeping the Australians in check, Indian fans have much to cheer and much to look forward to as the international season heats up.