India clinched a six-wicket victory over Australia in their inaugural match of the ICC World Cup 2023 held on Sunday in Chennai.
Despite batting first, Australia failed to set a challenging total on the board. Even though they swiftly claimed three early wickets as India chased, all three went down without contributing a single run.
However, this did little to alter the course of the match in favor of Australia.
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Virat Kohli and Lokesh Rahul orchestrated a formidable 165-run partnership in the fourth wicket, expertly guiding India to a comfortable victory in pursuit of 200 runs.
Kohli was handed a reprieve when he was at 12, as Shaun Marsh fumbled a catch after Kohli skied the ball. Marsh missed a crucial opportunity.
Rahul stood unbeaten at 97.
Josh Hazlewood of Australia scalped three wickets, but his efforts proved futile as Australia fell short of clinching the match.
Australia, having won the toss, posted a total of 199. Despite an early setback, David Warner and Steven Smith established a robust 69-run partnership for the second wicket, providing a sturdy foundation for the Australian side.
Read: ICC World Cup 2023: Australia Opts to Bat First Against India
Nevertheless, they were unable to achieve a commanding total. Ravindra Jadeja showcased exceptional skill with the ball, securing three pivotal wickets from Australia's middle-order while conceding a mere 28 runs in his 10-over spell.
For Australia, Smith emerged as the top scorer with 46 runs, closely followed by Warner with 41. Marnus Labuschagne and Mitchell Starc were the other two batters to breach the 20-run mark.