In a high-stakes clash for the coveted ICC World Test Championship title, Australia showcased their dominance over India, securing a resounding victory by 209 runs. The match witnessed intense cricketing action as both teams battled fiercely at the crease.
India’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss seemed promising initially, as they managed to pick up an early wicket. However, Australia made a good response after losing an early wicket. Especially, Travis Head and Steve Smith were brilliant in the first innings. Travis Head, displaying his sublime batting skills, crafted a magnificent knock of 163 runs, while Steve Smith provided solid support with a century of his own, scoring 121 runs. Their partnership proved crucial in propelling Australia to a commanding total of 469 runs before being bowled out.
In response, India took to the crease with determination but faced a formidable challenge from Australia’s disciplined bowling attack. Ajinkya Rahane exhibited great resilience, accumulating 89 runs, while Shardul Thakur’s aggressive half-century of 51 runs added valuable runs to India’s total. However, Australia’s bowlers remained persistent, and India was eventually dismissed for 296 runs. Australia’s bowlers showcased their skill and precision, constantly challenging the Indian batsmen and reaping rewards for their efforts.
With a significant lead of 173 runs, Australia commenced their second innings. Despite declaring at 270/8, they continued to dominate the match. Alex Carey played a crucial unbeaten innings of 66 runs, steering Australia’s batting effort, while Mitchell Starc’s quickfire 41 runs bolstered the team’s total. Eventually, Australia declared their second innings at 270/8.
Facing an arduous target of 444 runs, India needed a remarkable batting display to mount a successful chase. Unfortunately, their top order couldn’t contribute enough. But Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane tried to make a good impact. They fought hard to chase the target. Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane showcased their skills, contributing 49 and 46 runs respectively, but their efforts were not enough to turn the tide. Australia’s bowlers persisted with precision, and India were eventually bowled out for 234 runs. Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon destroyed India’s batting lineup. Boland picked up three wickets, while Lyon got four. As a result, Australia won the match by 209 runs and was crowned the ICC World Test Championship.
Pat Cummins Reaction
Aussie skipper Pat Cummins is very pleased to lift the Test Championship trophy. He highly praised his team. The captain said, “I think the great thing about this final is we feel like we’ve played awesome cricket for the last two years and being there at the end holding the trophy feels really well deserved.”
“Obviously the win here (is special), but to make it to the final you’ve got to win everywhere in the world. I think this cycle was 20 Test matches…and the boys were fantastic the whole way through. We adapted well and that’s what makes it so satisfying,” the Aussie captain added.
