As the cricketing world gears up for the highly anticipated ODI World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia, set to unfold at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, India’s captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid have devised a comprehensive five-point plan to secure victory and clinch their third World Cup title.
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1. Blazing Start from Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma’s explosive batting has been a consistent factor in India’s undefeated run in the tournament, amassing a total of 550 runs with a strike rate of 124.15. Sharma’s fearless approach at the top, coupled with opening partner Shubman Gill, has laid a solid foundation for the middle order to capitalize on. The skipper’s record-breaking 51 sixes in World Cups, including 28 in this edition, reflects his aggressive intent. His quickfire 29-ball 47 in the semifinal against New Zealand showcased his ability to take charge from the start, a momentum India will hope he carries into the final.
2. Another Special One from Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, the highest run-getter in the tournament with an impressive 711 runs at an average of 101.57, has been in scintillating form. With three centuries and five half-centuries, Kohli’s contributions have been monumental. His recent milestone of 50 ODI centuries and the iconic bow to Sachin Tendulkar in the stands have added to the spectacle. If Kohli continues his stellar form, India stands to gain a significant advantage in their quest for World Cup glory.
3. Kuldeep vs Maxwell Battle
The showdown between spinner Kuldeep Yadav and Australian powerhouse Glenn Maxwell is anticipated to be a critical factor in the final. Maxwell, known for his explosive batting, was dismissed for 15 by Kuldeep in their previous encounter. The spinner’s ability to keep Maxwell guessing with his variations will be pivotal. The outcome of this battle will heavily depend on the nature of the Ahmedabad pitch, making it a key factor to watch in the grand finale.
4. Remove Marsh, Warner & Head Early
India’s pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and the formidable Mohammed Shami will be tasked with dismantling Australia’s top-order, including David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, and Travis Head. The trio’s ability to switch gears rapidly poses a threat, and early breakthroughs will be crucial to disrupt their rhythm. With Warner leading the run charts for Australia, the onus is on the Indian pacers to apply early pressure and contain the Australian power hitters.
5. Shami the Ace
Mohammed Shami, India’s star pacer and the tournament’s highest wicket-taker with 23 wickets in just six matches, has been a revelation. His fiery spell of 7/57 against New Zealand in the semifinal was instrumental in securing India’s spot in the final. Shami’s ability to swing the ball and pick crucial wickets makes him a lethal weapon in Rohit Sharma’s arsenal. If Shami continues his stellar form, he could once again emerge as the go-to man for India in the title clash.
As India embarks on this crucial encounter against Australia, the meticulous planning and execution of these five key strategies will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the World Cup final. Cricket enthusiasts around the globe eagerly await the spectacle that promises to be a clash of titans on the grandest stage of them all.
