SYDNEY, 26 October (H.S.): Following a commanding, match-winning century against Australia on Saturday, Indian cricket stalwart Rohit Sharma has his sights set on the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, which will reportedly be his final tournament before retirement. The revelation came from his childhood coach, Dinesh Lad, after Sharma’s spectacular performance secured a consolation victory for India in the third One-Day International (ODI).

In what was likely his final international appearance on Australian soil, the 38-year-old Sharma silenced his critics with a vintage display of batting. He crafted an unbeaten 121 runs from 125 balls to lead India in a dominant nine-wicket victory over the hosts at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

This knock was not only his 50th century in international cricket but also his ninth against Australia, equalling Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most tons by an Indian player against them.

For his efforts, which included a series total of 202 runs at an average of 101, Sharma was named both Player of the Match and Player of the Series.

He will play the 2027 ODI World Cup and retire after that, his coach Dinesh Lad stated, expressing his pride after the match.The victory was a powerful conclusion to the series for India, who were chasing a target of 237 runs. Australia, having already secured the series 2-1, won the toss and chose to bat, but were bowled out for 236.

India’s chase was masterful, anchored by an unbroken 168-run partnership between Sharma and long-time teammate Virat Kohli.Kohli also made a triumphant return to form, scoring a rock-solid 74 not out after being dismissed for ducks in the first two matches of the series.

The veteran duo’s commanding performance enthralled the pro-Indian crowd, providing a fitting farewell as they guided their team home with more than 11 overs to spare.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar