The T20 World Cup 2024 has been a thrilling spectacle, but one moment that stands out is Rohit Sharma’s explosive innings against Australia. On a day when Virat Kohli fell without scoring, Rohit Sharma took it upon himself to anchor the innings and deliver a performance that not only pulverized Australia but also lifted the spirits of Indian cricket fans worldwide.

Rohit Sharma’s explosive start

From the very first ball, it was clear that Rohit was in the mood for a big score. The Australian bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc, faced the brunt of his aggressive batting. Starc’s decision to bowl full deliveries was a costly error, as Rohit smashed two sixes over covers and another over mid-wicket, extracting 29 runs off a single over. This set the tone for what was to come.

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Rohit’s aggression didn’t stop with Starc. Pat Cummins, one of the best bowlers in the world, was also treated with disdain. Rohit reached his half-century in just 19 balls, a testament to his aggressive intent and flawless execution. Cummins tried varying his length and pace, but Rohit was unstoppable.

Rohit seemed destined for a century. However, a superb inswinging yorker from Starc ended his innings at 92. It was a knock that had everything – aggression, finesse, and strategic brilliance. His departure was a relief for Australia, but the damage had already been done.

Hazlewood’s tight spell

Amidst the carnage, Josh Hazlewood managed to keep things tight. In his three overs during the powerplay, he conceded just 10 runs, ensuring that the Indian team couldn’t run away with the game early on. Despite Hazlewood’s disciplined bowling, India ended the powerplay at a formidable 60/1.

Pant and Rohit Partnership

After the powerplay, Rishabh Pant joined Rohit at the crease. Pant’s arrival signaled more trouble for Australia. He welcomed Adam Zampa with a towering six, and Rohit added another for good measure. However, Pant’s aggressive streak led to his downfall, as a leading edge off Marcus Stoinis found a fielder.

Australia’s Claw Back

Pant’s dismissal gave Australia a brief respite. Stoinis’ breakthrough allowed the Australian bowlers to exert some control. Zampa, Hazlewood, and Cummins bowled tighter lines, trying to stem the flow of runs. This period saw a temporary slowdown in India’s run rate.

Suryakumar Yadav’s contribution

Suryakumar Yadav, known for his innovative stroke play, kept the scoreboard ticking. He hit a quick 31 off 16 balls, including a six and a four, ensuring that India maintained a high run rate. His partnership with Rohit was crucial in keeping the pressure on the Australian bowlers.

Hardik Pandya’s late surge

Hardik Pandya took charge in the death overs. His two massive sixes off Stoinis at the start of the final over were crucial in pushing India’s total past the 200-run mark. Despite losing Shivam Dube in the same over, Hardik’s cameo ensured that India finished strongly.

India ended their innings at 205/5, their third-highest total in T20 World Cup history and the highest against Australia in a T20 World Cup. The final overs saw some crucial contributions, and despite some tight bowling, India managed to post a formidable score.

15 maximums for India today – the most sixes by them in an inngs in T20 World Cups surpassing 13 they hit in the previous game against Bangladesh in North Sound. It is also the most by a team in this year’s T20 World Cup.

If Australia chase this down inside 15.3 overs, they will qualify for the semis. If not, India are assured of a semifinal spot.

Highest totals for India in T20 World Cups
218/4 vs Eng Durban 2007
210/2 vs Afg Abu Dhabi 2021
205/5 vs Aus Gros Islet 2024
196/5 vs Ban North Sound 2024
Also, the joint highest total against Australia in T20 World Cups equaling West Indies’ 205/4 at Colombo RPS in 2012 semifinals.