The intense India versus Australia series has come to an end with the visitors getting the upper hand in both the T20 and ODI series. While India was dominant when they toured Australia, Aaron Finch and his men proved they’re no pushovers, bouncing back in India after trailing 2-0 in the ODI series. It was a momentous comeback, led by the captain and his trusty opener Usman Khawaja who put some a couple of mind-blowing performances. The Australian bowlers too were spot on with their deliveries. This was India’s first home ODI series defeat after 28 months.
After the first three ODIs, India rested MS Dhoni for the remaining matches – a decision disapproved by many fans. Rishabh Pant was brought in to replace the veteran wicketkeeper. Throughout the series, India tried out numerous combinations. Several players were tried out and later rested. It was possibly a conscious decision by the team management, to test players before the World Cup squad is announced.
Whatever the strategy was, India’s star-studded lineup was thwarted of a trophy and that didn’t go well with their fans. Many clamoured for the return of MS Dhoni to the side, with memes mocking Pant and the selectors. Questions were also raised on Virat Kohli efficiency as captain when Dhoni is not on the field. A lot of hate was also directed at Shikhar Dhawan, who save for the fourth match, had a lacklustre series.
It was a tough series no doubt, and beating India at home always calls for a celebration. That said, India will surely look hard at the decisions they made, because being routed an Australian side missing the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner, may be a cause for concern.
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