Bengaluru, India: Virat Kohli's masterful century, his first in over three years, powered India to a thrilling 9-wicket victory over Australia in the third and final T20I at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, clinching the series 2-1. The chase was far from easy, with Australia setting a challenging target of 187 runs, but Kohli's brilliance and Suryakumar Yadav's quickfire knock ensured a comfortable win for the hosts.
From the start, Australia looked in control. Opener Cameron Green blazed away to a 52-ball 61, while Tim David's explosive cameo of 27 off 12 balls propelled them to a commanding total. However, the Indian bowlers fought back bravely, with Yuzvendra Chahal (2/25) and Axar Patel (2/24) keeping the scoring in check.
The chase began with a bang, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill putting on a quickfire 52-run opening stand. However, the dismissal of Rohit (11) brought Kohli to the crease, and the stage was set for a special innings. He began cautiously but soon found his rhythm, timing the ball beautifully and dispatching the Australian bowlers with ease.
Kohli reached his hundred off just 61 balls, becoming the first Indian to score a T20I century against Australia. His knock, laced with 12 boundaries and a massive six, was a testament to his class and his unwavering focus. Suryakumar Yadav, who had been struggling for form in the series, joined the party with a blistering 26 off 13 balls, and the duo put on a 104-run partnership to seal the win.
This victory serves as a massive boost for India's confidence going into the upcoming World Cup. Kohli's return to form is a major positive, and the team's ability to chase down a big target under pressure is a reassuring sign. Australia, despite the series loss, showed glimpses of brilliance and will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming series.
The series win is a testament to India's fighting spirit and their ability to overcome adversity. Kohli's century will go down in history as one of the most memorable innings played in the format, and the team's overall performance suggests that they are ready to challenge for the World Cup title.