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Australia break India's unbeaten streak to lift the World Cup

 Published: 12:09, 20 November 2023

Australia break India's unbeaten streak to lift the World Cup

In a gripping at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Australia emerged victorious breaking India's unbeaten streak to clinch the prestigious World Cup title in cricket. 

Facing a challenging start at 47-3, Australia displayed resilience, with Head spearheading the charge against one of the tournament's most formidable bowling line-ups. His stellar innings of 137 runs off 120 deliveries not only anchored Australia's triumph but also etched his name in history as only the seventh batsman to achieve a century in a World Cup final, following the footsteps of Mahela Jayawardene in 2011.
Notably, Head's achievement marked the third instance of a batter achieving this milestone in a World Cup final for Australia, with Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist accomplishing similar feats in 2003 and 2007, respectively.
Earlier in the year, Head had showcased his mettle with a match-winning century in the World Test Championship final, further establishing his credentials on the international stage. Assisting Head's brilliance was Marnus Labuschagne, who provided steady support with a composed half-century, contributing significantly to Australia's successful pursuit.
Australia's dominance wasn't limited to their batting prowess. The team's pacers dictated terms, restricting India to a modest total of 240 runs. Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, Australian captain Pat Cummins set the tone early on, despite an explosive start by Rohit Sharma, who notched up a brisk 47 off 31 deliveries.
However, Mitchell Starc's dismissal of Shubman Gill and a remarkable catch by Travis Head to send Rohit Sharma back to the pavilion tilted the balance in Australia's favor. Cummins further compounded India's challenges by dismissing the in-form Shreyas Iyer, while boundaries became scarce as the innings progressed.
Despite Virat Kohli's fiery innings, scoring 54 off 63 deliveries, the departure of key players at crucial junctures dented India's aspirations. KL Rahul's resilient 66 off 107 deliveries and efforts to stabilize the innings were in vain as Mitchell Starc's bowling brilliance accounted for his wicket.
The onus then fell on Suryakumar Yadav, but his departure without a significant contribution left India grappling to finish strongly. Australia's bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins, showcased their prowess by collectively claiming seven crucial wickets, ensuring a comprehensive victory in the World Cup final.
Australia's triumph in securing their sixth World Cup title highlighted their exceptional skill and determination, while individual performances and collective teamwork shone brightly in their quest for cricketing glory on the grandest stage.

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