India vs Australia, 1st ODI: Rohit Sharma slams fifty; Shikhar Dhawan fails to fire

New Delhi: India's opening batsmen Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma experienced contrasting fortunes in the 1st ODI against Australia at Perth on Tuesday.

While Sharma was delightful to watch, Dhawan struggled to get going against the Aussie pace attack.

The left-hander was caught by Marsh off Hazlewood's bowling for 9. Dhawan lasted just 22 balls, scoring one boundary.

Rohit on the other hand was in imperious form, playing delectable shots on a good batting surface.

The right-hander got to his first fifty of the year off 62 balls with 4 fours and a six.

Virat Kohli gave good company to Rohit as the duo dominated the Australian attack after the fall of the first wicket.

Runs have dried up for Dhawan of late. Although he scored a fifty in his last ODI innings, the explosive opener hasn't been consistent.

With four matches to go, the 29-year-old needs runs under his belt to retain his place in the side going forward.