• Source:JND
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Australia heads into the World Cup decider against India with all elements clicking, especially after the devastating return to form of their renowned pace attack in the semi-final against South Africa. The power play wickets had been elusive for the five-time champions, but the opening spells of Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood proved decisive in the three-wicket win in Kolkata.

Captain Pat Cummins, along with the duo of Starc and Hazlewood, had previously been overshadowed by leg-spinner Adam Zampa, who claimed 22 victims in the tournament. However, in the semi-final, the quicks took eight of the 10 wickets, providing a significant confidence boost before facing India's formidable batting lineup in the ultimate test.

Here's Australia's journey into the World Cup final:

Match 1: Australia lost to India by 6 wickets in Chennai

Match 2: Australia lost to South Africa by 134 runs in Lucknow

Match 3: Australia beat Sri Lanka by 5 wickets in Lucknow

Match 4: Australia beat Pakistan by 62 runs in Bengaluru

Match 5: Australia beat Netherlands by 309 runs in Delhi

Match 6: Australia beat New Zealand by 5 runs in Dharamsala

Match 7: Australia beat England by 33 runs in Ahmedabad

Match 8: Australia beat Afghanistan by 3 wickets in Pune

Match 9: Australia beat Bangladesh by 8 wickets in Pune

Semifinal: Australia beat South Africa by 3 wickets in Kolkata

In the 2023 World Cup final, the stage is set for a titanic clash, with Pat Cummins leading Australia and Rohit Sharma at the helm for India. The teams will aim to etch their names in the annals of cricketing glory, adding another chapter to their riveting rivalry. The head-to-head statistics provide a backdrop of anticipation, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the World Cup. 

 

Inputs from PTI