Chapter 78

On day three of the Test match between India and Australia, the Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed a batting masterclass by Virat Kohli. His remarkable double century, along with a valuable partnership with Ishant Sharma, propelled India to a commanding position. India eventually declared their innings at 440, taking a substantial lead of 230 runs.

As the day began, Kohli resumed his innings with the determination to capitalize on his overnight score of 120. He showed no signs of complacency, displaying his insatiable appetite for runs. The Australian bowlers tried various tactics to dismiss him, but Kohli's class and technique were simply too good to handle.

Harsha Bhogle: "Welcome back to day three! Virat Kohli has been a class apart. He resumes his innings on an impressive 120, and he will be looking to convert it into a big score. Australia's bowlers have a daunting task ahead."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Kohli has been in a league of his own. He has played with great authority and determination. Australia needs to find a way to break this partnership and put pressure on India."

Kohli's innings took on an even greater significance as India had lost early wickets on day two. He knew the onus was on him to anchor the innings and build partnerships. Alongside him, Ishant Sharma, the unlikely hero, displayed his batting skills and resilience. The duo formed a surprising yet vital partnership that frustrated the Australian bowlers.

Harsha Bhogle: "This partnership between Kohli and Ishant Sharma is turning out to be quite remarkable. Ishant has shown great composure with the bat, supporting Kohli admirably. India needs this partnership to blossom further."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. Ishant's contribution with the bat has been invaluable. He has provided solid support to Kohli, allowing him to dominate the Australian attack. This partnership is crucial for India's lead."

Kohli continued to dominate the bowlers, displaying his wide array of strokes and impeccable timing. His shots were a blend of elegance and power, leaving the Australian fielders in awe. As he accumulated runs with ease, he also brought up his magnificent double century, a testament to his supreme skill and determination.

Harsha Bhogle: "Virat Kohli has done it! What a player he is. This is a truly special innings. His double century has come in commanding fashion, showcasing his exceptional talent and hunger for runs."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Kohli's double century is a testament to his batting prowess. He has dominated the Australian bowling attack, displaying sublime strokeplay. This is a remarkable achievement."

While Kohli was stealing the show, Ishant Sharma played a crucial role in supporting his captain. He showcased a newfound confidence with the bat, defending resolutely and occasionally unleashing his attacking instincts. The pair constructed a 70-run partnership, taking India's lead to formidable heights.

Harsha Bhogle: "Ishant Sharma is batting with great determination. He has shown immense improvement in his batting skills and temperament. This partnership is proving to be a thorn in Australia's side."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Ishant's contribution cannot be underestimated. He has played with discipline and provided the much-needed support to Kohli. Together, they have taken India's lead to new heights."

As the partnership flourished, Australia's frustration grew. The bowlers toiled hard but struggled to break through the Kohli-Ishant alliance. The Indian captain, now leading from the front, dictated the game with his elegant strokeplay and calculated aggression.

Harsha Bhogle: "Kohli is in a league of his own. He is dictating terms to the Australian bowlers. They are running out of ideas to dismiss him. This is a batting masterclass."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. Kohli's batting has been a sheer joy to watch. He is dismantling the Australian attack with ease. His form and confidence are a nightmare for the opposition."

As the day progressed, Kohli's majestic innings finally came to an end, caught behind off the bowling of Pat Cummins. He departed to a standing ovation from the crowd, having scored a monumental 250 runs, including a staggering 34 boundaries.

Harsha Bhogle: "What an innings it has been from Virat Kohli! The Sydney Cricket Ground rises to applaud his magnificent double century. He has been unstoppable today, and the Australian bowlers will breathe a sigh of relief."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. Kohli's innings has been a masterclass. He has dominated the Australian attack and has taken India to a position of strength. This knock will be remembered for a long time."

With Kohli's departure, India declared their innings at 440, taking a substantial lead of 230 runs. The Australian bowlers had toiled hard but were left with an uphill battle to save the match.

Harsha Bhogle: "India has declared their innings with a lead of 230 runs. This sets up an intriguing contest. The pressure is now on Australia to bat out the remaining time and salvage a draw."

Murali Karthik: "Absolutely, Harsha. India's declaration has given them a great chance of victory. The Australian batsmen will have to show immense character and resilience to save this match."

As the day's play came to a close, India held the upper hand, thanks to Kohli's majestic innings and the valuable contributions from the lower order. The stage was set for an intense battle on the remaining days, with India eyeing a victory and Australia fighting to salvage a draw.

Harsha Bhogle: "What a day it has been for India! Kohli's exceptional double century has put them in a commanding position. The focus now shifts to the Australian batsmen, who face a daunting task."

Murali Karthik: "Indeed, Harsha. India's dominance on day three has set the tone for an enthralling finish. The next few days promise to be filled with excitement and tension. Cricket at its best!"

As the players left the field, the Indian team and its supporters celebrated Kohli's extraordinary innings. The match had taken a significant turn in India's favor, and they were determined to carry their momentum into the remaining days, aiming for a memorable victory.