In the third and final ODI of the series between India national cricket team and Australia national cricket team at the Sydney Cricket Ground on 25 October 2025, India turned the tables in a resounding manner — even though the series was already lost. Here’s a full breakdown of the match, key performers, and what it means going forward.

Match Summary

Australia won the toss and elected to bat.

India’s bowling attack produced a strong performance and bowled Australia out for 236 runs.

In response, India’s top order simply dominated: Rohit Sharma smashed an unbeaten 121 and Virat Kohli contributed a stylish 74 to steer India to a comfortable nine-wicket win.

The partnership between Rohit and Kohli was worth 168 runs, effectively ending the contest.

Key Performers

Rohit Sharma: His century (33rd in ODIs) set the tone. He looked in strong touch and attacked with intent.

Virat Kohli: After a lean patch, he found his rhythm. His 74 was composed and impactful in the context of the chase.

Harshit Rana: One of India’s standout bowlers today, he took key wickets and helped restrict Australia to a modest total.

The rest of the bowling unit and fielders supported well — the catch-work, pressure creation and discipline were all better than in earlier games of the series.

Tactical Highlights

Choosing to chase was the right call. With a total of 236 to get, India’s batting looked capable and they attacked from early on.

The opening stand between Rohit and Kohli put Australia on the back foot — there were minimal hiccups.

India’s bowlers offered breakthroughs at crucial junctures, preventing Australia from building a big total.

In earlier matches, India had failed to close out chases or build large enough totals; today they reversed that trend.

Significance & What It Means

While the series result had already gone Australia’s way (they had taken the first two ODIs), this win is significant for India in several ways:

Avoiding a whitewash: A 0-3 loss would have been demoralising; this win gives momentum and confidence.

Confidence boost for veterans: With Rohit and Kohli delivering in a big way, team morale gets a lift.

Positive signals for the future: The batting depth and bowling options seem to have promising signs — useful for upcoming challenges.

Setting tone for next series: India will want to carry this performance forward, especially away from home, where they face tougher conditions.

Looking Ahead

The Indian side will now reflect on the series: learn from the two losses, and build on the win. Key questions will include:

Can the middle order consistently contribute as Rohit and Kohli did today?

Will the bowling unit continue to offer depth and breakthroughs under pressure?

How will India handle conditions overseas in future tours?

Which players will cement their place going into major ICC events?

India vs Australia — 3rd ODI, Sydney (25 Oct 2025)

Result: India won by 9 wickets (237/1 in 38.3 overs) — Player of the Match: Rohit Sharma (121*)

Series: India tour of Australia, 2025-26 | Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) | Umpires: Richard Kettleborough, Wayne Knights | Referee: Jeff Crowe

Australia Innings — 236 all out (46.4 overs)

Extras: 31 (w 27, nb 2, b 2)

Fall of wickets: 1-60 (Head, 6.2 ov); 2-88 (Marsh, 13.4 ov); 3-124 (Short, 21.0 ov); 4-183 (Carey, 33.4 ov); 5-189 (Renshaw, 35.2 ov); 6-201 (Green, 37.4 ov); 7-205 (Starc, 38.4 ov); 8-209 (Ellis, 40.3 ov); 9-230 (Zampa, 45.5 ov); 10-236 (Owens, 46.4 ov)

Bowling — India

India Innings — 237/1 (38.3 overs)

Extras: 18 (w 17, nb 1)

Fall of wickets: 1-69 (Gill, 11.1 ov)

Bowling — Australia

Match Summary: India won by 9 wickets with 69 balls remaining. Series result: Australia lead 2–1.