India’s astonishing run of 18 consecutive toss losses in One-Day Internationals continued in Sydney when Australia won the coin flip and chose to bat first in the third ODI. When asked about this peculiar streak, acting captain Shubman Gill offered a refreshingly candid and humorous response during the post-match press conference, stating, “Mere ko mere gharwale bhi bol rahe hai, kuch na kuch toss ke liye.” This witty comment, which translates to “Even my family members are telling me to do something about the toss,” brought laughter to the room and perfectly captured Gill’s relaxed demeanor and the team’s no-pressure environment despite the ongoing jinx.
Gill also took the opportunity to commend the outstanding performances of seasoned players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who were instrumental in India’s emphatic nine-wicket victory over Australia. “It’s great to see them back and enjoying themselves. They’ve been doing this for the past fifteen years for us, and to be able to watch them like this is truly special,” he remarked. The two veteran batsmen turned back the clock, forging an unbeaten 168-run partnership that enabled India to comfortably chase down a target of 237 with 69 balls to spare at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground.
Reflecting further on their invaluable contribution, Gill added, “I think as players, there was no doubt over either of them that they wouldn’t be able to perform. But definitely, it feels very good as a captain sitting outside and watching the match, seeing the two most senior players playing and getting the team through.”
Addressing his own form, Gill acknowledged a period of measured batting after some earlier struggles in the series. “I think before coming here, in many batting innings, it doesn’t feel like it happens that you get starts, and you play good shots. In the first match, I got out down the leg side, so I wasn’t thinking too much about needing to do something about my batting… But I am not too worried about my performance in the past two or three matches.”
Ultimately, India’s victory, highlighted by the masterful batting of Rohit and Kohli and complemented by Gill’s composed leadership, ensured the team concluded the series on a high note, even as their curious toss losing streak continues to be a talking point. The skipper’s lighthearted jab at his “gharwale” provided a charming glimpse into the camaraderie and lighter side of international cricket.