Rohit Sharma brings out the trademark pull, Men's ODI World Cup, Pune, October 19, 2023

Gill and Kohli's Mastery

While Rohit's fireworks set the tone, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli ensured that India faced no hiccups in their pursuit. 

Gill, with his aggressive strokeplay, and Kohli, with his masterful batting, further solidified India's stronghold on the game. The two batters maintained composure and control throughout their partnership, driving India closer to victory.

As India approached the target, the spotlight shifted to Virat Kohli. With KL Rahul by his side, Kohli required just a few runs to reach the coveted century. 

A moment of opportunity arrived when Rahul was batting at 33, and Kohli was on 73, with India needing only 28 runs to win. Seizing the moment, Kohli marked his 48th ODI century in style, ensuring India's triumph with flair. 

Rahul remained unbeaten at 34 as India comfortably secured another victory in the World Cup.

Virat Kohli is ecstatic after scoring his 48th century

Bangladesh's Missed Opportunity

In contrast, Bangladesh had an opportunity to post a substantial total but failed to capitalize on their openers' promising start. India's new-ball bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj, posed early challenges. 

Bangladesh managed to score just 10 runs in the first five overs, but the dynamics changed dramatically in the next five. Openers Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das initiated a flurry of boundaries, taking Bangladesh's score from 10/0 to 63/0 during the powerplay.

However, India quickly regained control in the middle phase of the game. Kuldeep and Jadeja stepped up to break the opening stand. While Kuldeep dismissed Tanzid with a LBW delivery, Jadeja silenced the in-form Najmul. Bangladesh found themselves in a vulnerable position at 137/4 after a promising start.

Ravindra Jadeja trapped Najmul Hossain Shanto in front

Bangladesh's hopes of a competitive total rested on the experienced pair of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah. While Rahim kept the scoreboard ticking, India struck at the right time, courtesy of a remarkable catch by Jadeja at backward point. 

Mahmudullah's late onslaught against India's pace bowlers guided Bangladesh past the 250-run mark.

In the end, India's collective efforts, from the top order to the bowlers, secured another convincing victory. As they continue their unbeaten run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, India remains one of the dominant forces in the tournament.

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