NEW DELHI: Australia began the series with a strong four wicket win over India in Melbourne. It was a convincing performance from the hosts who outplayed India in every department. Still, one moment stood out in India’s innings when Harshit Rana launched a stunning six that silenced the crowd for a second before drawing applause.

Rana’s towering six

Marcus Stoinis bowled a slower delivery that sat up nicely. Rana steadied himself, picked the length early and smashed it clean over mid wicket. The ball soared into the stands as India reached their 100 and the fifty partnership.

It was a confident strike from the young all rounder who played with intent and power. Rana’s 35 off 33 balls showed promise even as wickets tumbled around him.

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Abhishek shines in defeat

Abhishek Sharma was the backbone of India’s innings. He played a fluent knock of 68 from 37 balls, timing the ball beautifully through the gaps. His partnership with Rana pushed India past 120, giving the bowlers something to defend. But Australia’s chase was too strong.

Mitchell Marsh led from the front with a brisk 46 off 26 balls. Travis Head and Josh Inglis chipped in to keep the scoreboard ticking. Varun Chakaravarthy and Jasprit Bumrah picked two wickets each, but the hosts cruised home in 13.2 overs. Josh Hazlewood’s superb spell of 3 for 13 earned him the Player of the Match award as Australia took a 1-0 lead in the series.