Ahmedabad: Australia clinched their sixth ICC Men’s ODI World Cup title by defeating India by six wickets. Opener Travis Head played a stellar role, smashing a sensational century with a score of 137.
Australia’s bowlers set the stage for victory by bundling out India for 240 in 50 overs. Mitchell Starc led the charge with three wickets, while Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood contributed two each. In response, Head’s impressive ton guided Australia to a comfortable win, with Marnus Labuschagne’s supportive 58 proving crucial.
Despite a challenging start, losing early wickets to Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, Head and Labuschagne’s partnership turned the tide. Head’s century, notably the second in a World Cup final while chasing, powered Australia past India’s target with ease.
Australia, initially facing two consecutive losses, made a stunning comeback with seven wins in the league phase, securing victories in the semifinal against South Africa and the final against India.
This victory marks Australia’s sixth men’s ODI World Cup crown, adding to their previous triumphs in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, and 2015. Chasing 241 in the final, Australia displayed early aggression, reaching 15 runs in the first over. However, Shami’s dismissal of David Warner in the second over provided India an early breakthrough.
Mitchell Marsh counter-attacked with a six and four, but Bumrah’s dismissal of Marsh in the fifth over and subsequent wickets in the Power-play brought India back into the game. Despite Bumrah’s impactful deliveries, Head and Labuschagne’s partnership took Australia to a commanding position.
Head’s second century of the World Cup 2023 proved decisive, and Australia comfortably chased the target in 43 overs, securing victory with 42 balls to spare. Earlier in the day, Australia’s bowling masterclass restricted India to 240 all out, despite a strong start from Rohit Sharma and contributions from Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. Mitchell Starc led the bowling attack with 3-55.
In summary, Australia’s impressive performance in both batting and bowling secured their victory in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 final, solidifying their status as cricket champions once again.
