MS Dhoni turns back the clock, Kedar Jadhav plays perfect foil as India make history Down Under

Melbourne: After Yuzvendra Chahal weaved his magic against the Australian batsmen, it was MS Dhoni and Kedar Jadhav, who were instrumental in keeping the hosts’ bowlers at bay.

Thanks to Dhoni and Jadhav’s half centuries, India successfully chased down 231 with seven wickets to spare. With this success, India clinched the three-match ODI series 2-1 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday.

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It was a remarkable comeback by Virat Kohli and his men after losing the opening contest in Sydney. And in all three games, Dhoni starred with the bat.

In the series decider, India first restricted Australia to 230 all out thanks to Chahal’s career-best 6/42. Then, in the run chase, the visitors were in a spot of bother at 113/3 in 30 overs.

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But, Dhoni and Jadhav ensured that the hosts’ bowlers did not have any chance in the game as they associated for an unbroken 121-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Dhoni, promoted to No 4, justified the move as he remained unbeaten on 87. Jadhav was the perfect ally for the former captain as he struck 61 not out.

The entire Indian innings did not have a single six but there were 17 boundaries. Dhoni hit six fours during his 114-ball knock while Jadhav had seven in his 57-ball stay.

It was a crucial game for Jadhav as he had made a comeback to the team. He was ignored for the opening two games. And the team management decided to bring him back in place of Ambati Rayudu.

Dhoni, Jadhav and Chahal made sure that India grabbed another slice of history Down Under. It was a double delight for ‘Men in Blue’ with maiden Test series and first-ever bilateral ODI rubber triumphs with identical margins of 2-1.

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