MS Dhoni steered India to the third and final one day international (ODI) victory against Australia in the Melbourne Cricket Grounds (MCG). Dhoni scored an unbeaten 87 today, he also scored his third consecutive half century in the series. India claimed the 3 match series 2-1.
India had to get 231 runs to win today, openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan went back to the pavillion quite early. Indian captain Virat Kohli laid a 54 run partnership with Dhoni. Jhye Richardson got rid of Kohli at 46, but MS Dhoni continued to stay till the end.
Dhoni was supported by Kedar Jadhav who was unbeaten at 61 to help India chase the total.
India had won the toss, Virat Kohli opted to bowl. Australia were bundled off for 230 runs after Yuzvendra Chahal picked up his best figures by an Indian bowler in Australia. Chahal picked up six wickets and shares this record with former cricketer Ajit Agarkar.
The Australian batting line up crumbled and were bowled out with 8 balls to spare. Only Peter Handscomb showed some resilience by scoring 58 runs before he fell to Chahal’s bowling. Early on Bhuvneshwar Kumar trapped Australian openers Alex Carey and Aaron Finch.
MS Dhoni was awarded man of the series for his contribution of 3 consecutive 50’s.
India have had a steller tour in Australia. Earlier India retained the Test series and now again won the ODI series. This puts in great hope for the team as they approach the World Cup in May this year.