As the cricketing world braces itself for the epic clash in the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 between India and Australia at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the banter has already begun. Australian star pacer Mitchell Starc, known for his fiery deliveries, added a touch of humour by trolling Team India and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the recent ‘pitch swapping allegations.’
Australia earned their spot in the final with a nail-biting victory over South Africa in a tense semi-final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. India, on the other hand, showcased dominance by thrashing New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The clash between these cricketing giants promises to be a spectacle, reminiscent of their meeting in the 2003 World Cup final.
This will be the second time India and Australia find themselves in the finals of an ICC Cricket World Cup. The first encounter was in 2003 at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, where Ricky Ponting’s Australia emerged victorious, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament. Sourav Ganguly led the Indian side in that memorable final.
Notably, this year also witnessed the two teams facing off in the World Test Championship Final, with Australia securing the victory. However, in the limited-overs format, India holds the upper hand, entering the final as the favourite, especially with the support of the home crowd.
Amidst the anticipation, Mitchell Starc injected a playful jab during a press conference when questioned about Australia’s concerns over facing spin on the Ahmedabad pitch. He cleverly responded, “I guess we’ll find out when we get to Ahmedabad tomorrow and see if it’s a fresh wicket or an old wicket.” This light-hearted comment alluded to the earlier pitch swap allegations made by the British media.
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In the lead-up to the semi-final clash between India and New Zealand, reports emerged suggesting a pitch swap, with claims that the Indian team management aimed for a slower surface. However, the match at Wankhede witnessed a run-fest, with a total of 724 runs scored on what turned out to be a batting-friendly track, dispelling the earlier allegations.
India has enjoyed a dream campaign in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, remaining undefeated with ten consecutive wins. Australia, despite initial setbacks against India and South Africa, bounced back with eight consecutive victories, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.
