It's taken them almost three years and over 11 matches but today India beat the odds to win the fourth ODI by 8 runs. After electing to bat first, India made 291 runs with Sachin and Dhoni scoring 50s. India opened with Ganguly and Tendulkar, the pair putting on 91 runs for the first wicket and laying the foundations for the big score. The last 4 overs saw India hammer 46 runs. Dhoni smashed 20 from the final over to reach his 50 from only 35 balls. He was well supported by Robin Uthappa who made 30 from only 18 balls.
Australia started the chase superbly despite losing Adam Gilchrist early. The hundred came in only 77 balls and the match seemed to be slipping away. However Irfan Pathan and Dhoni combined together to get rid of Ricky Ponting. Michael Clarke followed soon after, spooning a dolly catch for Bhajji who had his first wicket in almost 5 matches. Murali Kathik then joined in on the fun as Matthew Hayden hit one straight to Zaheer Khan.
Symonds was left alone to do all the big hitting with Brad Hodge finding life difficult in the middle. Another sensational wicket-keeping saw him adjudged stumped by the third umpire. Symonds fell on 75 to a terrific delivery from RP Singh and the next balls saw Brad Hodge throw away his wicket to a good bit of fielding from RP Singh on his follow-through. Plenty of drama at the end as Australia needed 16 from the final over. James Hopes smashed the first ball straight down the ground for 4, however, Zaheer held his nerve and guided India to a much needed win. MS Dhoni was awarded the man of the match.
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