 "Why Australia are chasing 131 despite India scoring 136/9 in 26 overs at Perth")
Australia will not be chasing 137 but 131 to win the first ODI against India at the Perth Stadium on Sunday (19 October). India scored 136/9 after the match was reduced to 26 overs due to multiple rain breaks.
The first innings at Perth, which witnessed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli make a much-anticipated return to international cricket, was interrupted four times due to rain. Initially, the match was reduced to 49 overs per side, then 35 overs after the second break.
Another rain interruption forced the official to cut down the ODI to just 32 overs per side before settling on a 26-over game after the fourth rain break.
Eventually, it was a late burst from KL Rahul (38 off 31 balls) and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy (19 not out of 11) which helped India reach 136/9 in 26 overs. Earlier, Rohit got out on eight, while Kohli suffered an eight-ball duck.
Axar Patel also contributed 31 runs and Shubman Gill and Washington Sundar scored 10 runs each, but due to the stop-start nature of the innings, the Indian batters had a tough time finding their rhythm.
Why Austrlaia will chase 131 and not 137 vs India?
Nonetheless, Australia would need 131 to win due to the DLS calculations. The original target of 137 has been adjusted to 131 based on the DLS method, as India enjoyed the best batting conditions at the start without a wet outfield and longer powerplay; the target was adjusted to make it fair for both teams.
This, however, has handed the hosts, Australia, a massive advantage unless rain interrupts the match once again. Despite having just 26 overs to complete the chase, Australia now have a clear idea of the target while batting second and if rain doesn’t return, they would also have the opportunity to plan their innings as per match situations.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsIndia would hope for quick wickets early on to derail the Australian chase and take 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
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