Australia secured a historic sixth Men’s Cricket World Cup title on Sunday, defying the odds and a passionate home crowd in Ahmedabad to defeat host nation India by six wickets.
India, having dominated much of the tournament with ten consecutive wins, fell just short of meeting its country’s expectations. The cricket-obsessed nation, anticipating a one-day trophy after a 12-year wait, witnessed its near-impregnable batting lineup falter against Australia’s strategic bowling. Travis Head’s spectacular 137 off 120 balls anchored Australia’s run chase, steering them to victory and another World Cup trophy. The host nation, having won the last three World Cups and occupying the No. 1 spot in world rankings, failed to continue the pattern, particularly at the 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium.
India had a lightning-fast start, scoring 80 runs in the first powerplay, equaling the record for a men’s World Cup final. Captain Rohit Sharma displayed metaphorical and literal fireworks with a massive six into the stands. However, Rohit’s dismissal and subsequent wickets slowed the run rate. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul sought to rebuild the innings, but the pressure intensified. Kohli’s dismissal at 54 shifted momentum to Australia.
Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, rotated bowlers frequently, preventing India’s batsmen from settling into a rhythm. Despite Rahul’s resilient 66 off 107 balls, Australia maintained control, and the tail added crucial runs. Defending the total seemed challenging for India.
Australia’s batting initially faced challenges, losing early wickets to Mohammed Shami. However, Travis Head’s outstanding innings, complemented by Marnus Labuschagne’s contribution of 58, turned the game in Australia’s favor. Head, named player of the match, departed just shy of victory, with Maxwell hitting the winning runs and sparking jubilant celebrations among the Australians.
