India kick-started their Champions Trophy title defence with a 124-run drubbing of arch-rivals Pakistan via the Duckworth/Lewis method in a rain-hit game here at Edgbaston on Sunday.
After Pakistan won the toss, and asked India to bat, the collective batting effort of Indian team saw them amass 319 for three after the match was reduced to 48 overs a side. Set a revised target of 324 in 48 overs, which later became 289 in 41 following a third rain interruption, Pakistan were bundled out for 164 in 33.4 overs.
Rohit Sharma (91) and Shikhar Dhawan (68), as openers, put on a 136-run stand before brilliant knocks from skipper Virat Kohli (81 n.o.) and Yuvraj Singh (53) took India to a commanding total.
While Kohli shrugged off his poor form, Yuvraj was at his vintage best, slamming eight fours and one six in his 32-ball knock.
The Indian bowlers then produced a disciplined effort to seal a thumping victory. Umesh Yadav was the pick of the lot, returning figures of three for 30.
All-rounders Ravindra Jadeja (2/43) and Hardik Pandya (2/43) struck in the middle overs to keep India in control.
“Yuvi, the way he batted, I think it was the game-changing innings to be honest,” said Kohli. “That gave all of us the confidence to start striking the ball well.
India’s next game is with Sri Lanka at The Oval on Thursday – 8th June 2017.
Source: Deccan Herald