Clubhouse

Why Pakistan Was Perfect First Opponent for India

Fresh Videos

By

IND v PAK

India MS Dhoni Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team Facebook

IND v PAK

India MS Dhoni Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team Facebook

With over 1 billion people watching, India made the perfect start to defending its World Cup title as it defeated rival Pakistan by 76 runs in Adelaide on Sunday. Inspired by man-of-the-match Virat Kohli's century, the Indian bowlers, especially the spinners, dismissed Pakistan for 224 in 47 overs. India finished with 300 for 7 in 50 overs.

International Spotlight

Roger Federer India Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team Facebook

International Spotlight

Roger Federer India Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team Facebook

Kohli shared century stands with opener Shikhar Dhawan (73) and Suresh Raina, who hit 74 off 56 balls against a struggling Pakistan bowling attack, with 83 runs coming off the final 10 overs. Potentially the importance of the match, however, was the fact that India put on such a performance in front of such an audience. Not just the live audience, but those watching around the world. Even Federer is a fan!

Cricket World Cup

India Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team

Cricket World Cup

India Cricket World Cup
Photo courtesy of Indian Cricket Team

Although India have a long ways to go until the tournament is over, starting it with a win over Pakistan is the absolute ideal way to kick off a tournament. India now have proven to themselves they can defeat their rivals without Sachin Tendulkar.

"I hate losing. I love to win and play for my country. My role is to play a long innings so that the power hitters can play with freedom," Kohli said.

Rohit Ghosh is a Senior Writer for www.Rantsports.com. Follow him on Twitter @RohitGhosh. “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.

Share Tweet
Trending Now on