OTD: A sixth men’s World Cup title for Australia in 2023

The 2023 ODI World Cup might be remembered as a nightmare by Indian fans because they suffered a heartbreak in the final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19. However, the loss in the summit clash does not take anything away from how well India played throughout the tournament. 

It was a rare occasion in world cricket where the opposition team started as the favourites in the finals of an ICC event against Australia. India had beaten every team they had faced in the tournament in the lead-up to the final, including Australia. However, on the night of the final, the Men in Yellow brought their A-game to the fore.

Pat Cummins won the toss at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and opted to field first. While this decision shocked many at the time, it later proved to be an instrumental call behind Australia’s success.

On a slow and low pitch, India were bowled out for 240 in 50 overs. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul scored half-centuries, while Rohit Sharma played a blistering knock at the top of the order. However, the other batters struggled on the sluggish track. Mitchell Starc bagged a three-for, while Josh Hazlewood and Cummins picked up two wickets apiece.

In reply, India needed wickets at the top, and they managed to dismiss David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, and Steve Smith inside the first powerplay. Having Australia at 47/3, it seemed that India would run away with the game. However, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne forged a massive 192-run stand off 215 balls to squash the hopes of Rohit Sharma and Co.

The pitch also seemed to ease out a bit but Head deserves massive praise for his counter-attacking knock of 137 off 120 balls to deflate India’s spirit. Labuschagne remained unbeaten on 58, as Glenn Maxwell hit the winning runs off the last ball of the 43rd over. Australia won the match by six wickets to lift the coveted ODI World Cup for the sixth time.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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