NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli endured a career low, registering back-to-back ducks in the first two ODIs against Australia following his return to international cricket after a seven-month hiatus.

However, Kohli remained a livewire on the field, playing a key role in India's breakthrough against the dangerous Travis Head during the second ODI in Adelaide. Chasing 265, Head was dismissed for 28 by pacer Harshit Rana.

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In a video that went on social media, Kohli was seen interacting with Head moments before his dismissal, putting an arm around his shoulder and sharing a few words with him.

It is believed that Kohli's words may have distracted Head, who edged a length delivery from Harshit Rana while trying to close the face of the bat. The ball flew straight into Kohli's hands at mid-off. Kohli erupted in celebration and rushed to Rana, seemingly sharing a moment of satisfaction as their plan bore fruit.

However, Head's dismissal proved little hindrance to Australia's chase, as they reached the target of 265 in 46.2 overs, winning by two wickets. Matthew Short led the way with 74 runs, while Cooper Connolly remained unbeaten on 61.

With this victory, Australia have secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series and will now aim for a clean sweep when the third game takes place on Saturday.

Both Kohli and Rohit Sharma returned to the Indian fold after a seven-month hiatus. While Rohit silenced his critics with a 73-run knock in the second ODI, Kohli was dismissed for ducks in both matches.