Australia has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series against India, following a commanding 8-wicket victory in the second One-Day International held in Adelaide. This win is particularly significant for Australia, as it marks their first ODI triumph over India at this venue in 17 years, showcasing a dominant performance by the hosts.
India's Batting Struggle
After losing the toss and being put in to bat, India's innings got off to a shaky start. Captain Shubman Gill departed for just 9 runs, and Virat Kohli registered his second consecutive duck, a rare occurrence in his illustrious career. However, a century partnership between Rohit Sharma (73 runs) and Shreyas Iyer (61 runs) stabilized the innings. Axar Patel's late contribution of 44 runs helped India post a respectable total of 264 runs.
Australian Bowlers Shine
Australia's Clinical Chase
Australia's bowling attack was led by young pacer Xavier Bartlett, who picked up 3 crucial wickets, putting pressure on the Indian middle order. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa was also instrumental, claiming 4 wickets to restrict India's scoring opportunities and ensure they didn't reach a more challenging total.
Chasing 265 for victory, Australia also had an early hiccup, losing Mitchell Marsh and Travis Head relatively cheaply. However, Matthew Short anchored the innings with a well-made 74 off 78 balls. The young Cooper Connolly then played a superb unbeaten half-century, and Mitchell Owen provided the finishing flourish with a rapid 36 runs off just 23 balls, guiding Australia to a comfortable win. The third and final ODI will be played in Sydney on October 25, where India will aim to avoid a series whitewash.
