WTC 2023- Three talking points for Australia

Australia defeated India in the World Test Championship (WTC) finals by a decisive margin of 209 runs in a gripping match at the Oval. Australia set the tone early on, scoring 469 runs in their first innings. The Indian team replied with a competitive 296-run total, but the Australians maintained their domination. Australia declared at 270/8 in their second innings, setting India a difficult total of 444 runs.

The Indian batters, however, struggled against the relentless Australian attack and were eventually brushed out for 234 runs, falling 209 runs short. Australia’s disciplined bowling and outstanding fielding contributed significantly to their resounding victory, which secured their status as World Test champions. So today in this article we will discuss three talking points for Australia in their WTC triumph.

1. Steve Smith’s Test form

Steve Smith’s resurgence in the World Test Championship finals against India has become a huge point of discussion in Australia as they prepare for the upcoming Ashes series. Smith’s performance in the finals demonstrated his amazing passion and dedication. He batted brilliantly in the first innings, scoring 121 runs off 268 balls and hitting 19 boundaries.

This inning displayed his ability to adapt and anchor the innings when the team most needed it. In the second innings, he added 34 runs off 47 balls, including three boundaries. With a proven track record in English circumstances, his return to form gives Australia a big advantage and improves their confidence ahead of the Ashes series against England.

2. Scott Boland a perfect replacement for Josh Hazelwood

Scott Boland has truly stepped up for Australia in the highly anticipated WTC finals against India in the absence of Josh Hazlewood. Despite the fact that Hazlewood has missed the majority of games over the last two years due to injury, Boland has risen to the occasion and made a tremendous impact.

Boland has already taken 33 wickets in the eight matches going up to the finals, demonstrating his bowling brilliance. But it was in the test championship finals that he truly shone, taking five key wickets. Boland’s outstanding performances have been crucial to Australia’s campaign, demonstrating his ability to flourish under pressure and cementing his position as a valuable member of the team.

3. Slip Catching

Australia’s World Test Championship finals victory against India was aided by their amazing slip-catching attempts, which proved essential in crucial situations. Steve Smith’s spectacular catches to eliminate the charging Virat Kohli in both innings demonstrated his tremendous skills and athleticism. Those receptions not only created crucial breaks but also pushed confidence in the Australian team.

Furthermore, Cameron Green’s disputed catch to dismiss Shubman Gill in the second innings shifted the momentum even more in Australia’s favor. Green’s grab, though debatable, displayed his quick reflexes and ability to hang on to challenging opportunities. These incredible slip catches highlighted Australia’s dedication to fielding perfection, ultimately contributing to their triumph in the World Test Championship finals.