The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as the Rohit Sharma-led India National Cricket Team gears up to face off against the Pat Cummins-led Australia National Cricket Team in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, November 19. The much-anticipated final promises a clash of titans, with both teams showcasing stellar performances throughout the tournament.
The Narendra Modi Stadium, known for its grandeur and capacity, adds a special flavor to the final. Having hosted crucial matches before, the stadium sets the stage for an epic showdown.
However, the spotlight isn’t only on the teams; it’s also on the pitch. The conditions of the pitch have become a significant talking point, especially after the India vs. Pakistan game, where the surface received an “average” rating from the ICC.
Both India and Australia are leaving no stone unturned in scrutinizing the pitch. A notable concern from Australia’s perspective is the five-meter patch in front of the crease, potentially favoring spinners.
This isn’t the first time the Ahmedabad pitch has stirred controversy. Before India’s semi-final, a ‘pitch switch’ controversy added an extra layer of intrigue to the playing conditions.
Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, shared his insights on the pitch. While acknowledging the slight advantage for the hosts, Cummins expressed confidence in his team’s adaptability. Adding to the drama, India enters the final with a remarkable 10-match winning streak, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.
Pat Cummins said, “Again, I’m not a great pitch reader, but it looked pretty firm. They’ve only just watered it, so yeah, give it another 24 hours and have a look, but it looks like a pretty good wicket. Yes, I think Pakistan played someone there. Yeah, hard to know; I think it’s been a bit more high-scoring here throughout the tournament. Yeah, it’s been a pretty good wicket, so yeah, hard to say. No doubt playing on your wicket in your own country has some advantages, similar to wickets that you’ve been playing your whole life. But we’ve played a lot of cricket over here.”
Australia, not far behind, boasts an 8-match winning streak, setting the stage for a nail-biting contest. As anticipation builds, cricket enthusiasts are eager to witness the clash between the bat and ball, spinners, and batters, in what promises to be an unforgettable final.
