echopakistan.comTravis Head’s splendid batting performance, with a 137-run innings, propelled Australia to their sixth World Cup title in cricket, defeating India by six wickets in Ahmedabad.
Facing a challenging target of 241, Australia initially faltered at 47-3. However, Head’s vigorous play, including his second century of the tournament, aligned Australia for a triumphant finish with seven overs remaining. Alongside Marnus Labuschagne, who remained not out on 58, Head’s 192-run partnership was pivotal in halting India’s 10-game unbeaten streak.
Head’s 120-ball innings featured 15 fours and four sixes. Post his dismissal, Glenn Maxwell’s shot secured the victory, igniting exuberant celebrations among the Australian team. India, seeking to end their trophy drought since 2013, saw their hopes dashed largely due to Head’s robust partnership with Labuschagne. Head’s century marked the seventh in a World Cup final and the third by an Australian, following Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist’s feats.
Australian bowlers, especially Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, played a significant role in restricting India to 240. Early wickets from Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah had given India a glimmer of hope, but Head and Labuschagne’s resilience proved overwhelming. Head’s participation itself was remarkable, overcoming a hand fracture. His form peaked at crucial moments, including a decisive century against New Zealand and a vital 62 in the semi-final against South Africa. This century against India added to his impactful performance earlier in the year.
The Australian team, electing to field first, showcased disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Despite half-centuries from Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, and a strong start by Rohit Sharma, Australia maintained control, with Head’s catch off Maxwell’s bowling and Cummins’ dismissal of Kohli being notable moments. The victory, before a massive crowd, marked a memorable day for Australian cricket, overshadowing India’s aspirations.
ETCHED IN HISTORY 🏆#INDvAUS #CWC23 #CWC23Final pic.twitter.com/yPqmzWdZIT
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) November 19, 2023
This is so satisfying. I can watch this whole day.😍❤️🩹#INDvsAUSfinal #CWC23Final#INDvsAUS #RohithSharmapic.twitter.com/fKrtdKVcVn
— Out Of Context Cricket PK (@GemsOfCrickett) November 19, 2023
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