WTC Final 2023: Reasons behind India’s downfall against Australia in a must win encounter

WTC Final 2023: Reasons behind India's downfall against Australia in a must win encounter

In a highly anticipated cricket match, India won the toss and made the decision to put Australia into bat. It seemed like the right choice at the time, as the Indian team was hoping to take advantage of the favorable conditions and put early pressure on the Australian batsmen. However, as the game progressed, it became evident that India had lost their grip on the match.

Australia’s opening batsmen, led by a resilient David Warner, stood firm against the Indian bowling attack. They played with great determination and skill, frustrating the Indian bowlers. By the end of the first day, amassed an impressive score of over 300 runs for the loss of just three wickets. India found themselves playing catch-up right from the start, with the match slipping out of their hands.

As the game entered the second day, Australia continued their dominance with the bat. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith joined forces to build a formidable partnership, steadily piling on the runs. Their brilliant stroke play and solid defense frustrated the Indian bowlers, who struggled to find a breakthrough. Australia’s total climbed to a formidable 469 runs, surpassing what could be considered a par score by 100-150 runs.

India’s batsmen, on the other hand, failed to capitalize on their starts. They lacked the determination and focus required to build substantial partnerships. The Australian bowlers exploited this vulnerability and dismantled the Indian batting lineup. With only around 150 runs on the board and more than half of their team back in the pavilion, India found themselves playing a desperate game of catch-up.

Australia, already holding a commanding lead of 173 runs, batted cautiously, further diminishing any hopes of an Indian comeback. They realized that batting India out of the match was the most effective strategy. The Indian bowlers toiled hard but were unable to break through the resolute Australian batsmen. Time was running out for India as Australia stretched their lead and effectively pushed them out of the game.

Optimistic fans may have hoped for a miraculous Gabba-like turnaround, but such hopes were quickly dashed. The Indian team needed a combination of luck and exceptional batting to achieve a remarkable victory, and unfortunately, it did not materialize. As the fifth day approached, Australia tightened their grip on the match, confident of securing a resounding victory.

On the fifth day, just before lunch, Australia wrapped up the Indian innings, sealing their triumph with a massive margin of 209 runs. It was a comprehensive victory for the Australians, who displayed skill, resilience, and determination throughout the 2021-23 cricket cycle. Apart from their series defeat in India, they showcased exceptional performances, and their hard work paid off as they lifted the championship trophy.

The Indian players were left with much to ponder as they reflected on their performance. They needed to examine their approach to crucial moments in matches and find ways to seize them. It was a long and challenging journey ahead for the Indian team as they sought to bounce back from this defeat and regain their winning form.

In conclusion, Australia’s dominance throughout the match proved too much for India to overcome. Despite India’s early advantage in winning the toss and opting to field, Australia’s batsmen showcased their brilliance, while the Indian batsmen faltered. Australia’s comprehensive victory in the championship match was well-deserved, highlighting their exceptional performance over four days and a session. Meanwhile, India must go back to the drawing board, address their shortcomings, and strategize to ensure they can triumph in future encounters.