Australia thrashed India on the first day of the 2023 World Test Championship Final in an extraordinary display of domination.
As Australia blasted out an astounding 157 runs in the final session without losing a single wicket, India was left reeling by the relentless partnership between Steven Smith (95*) and Travis Head (146*).
The duo’s remarkable performance at the Oval has firmly positioned their team as favorites to clinch the championship title.
The day began with India winning the toss and electing to bowl. The decision seemed promising as they swiftly claimed three wickets in the second over after lunch. However, little did they realize that their joy would be short-lived.
The batting pair of Travis Head and Steven Smith staged an exceptional recovery and then proceeded to decimate the Indian bowling attack as the pitch flattened out. The scorching sun had dried up the divots, rendering the pitch less treacherous, and negating the Indian bowlers’ advantage of seam movement and unpredictable bounce.
India struggled to create meaningful opportunities, except for a few edges that fell short of the cordon, as the final session yielded a staggering 157 runs for Australia.
Earlier in the day, Australia suffered an early setback when Usman Khawaja fell for a duck to a sublime delivery by Mohammed Siraj. However, Marnus Labuschagne and David Warner weathered the storm and began scoring freely.
Unfortunately for Australia, their partnership was broken on either side of the lunch break, with Shardul Thakur dismissing Warner and Mohammed Shami removing Labuschagne.
At 76-3, Australia appeared to be in a precarious position. Yet, Travis Head and Steven Smith orchestrated a remarkable comeback, not only resurrecting the innings but also launching a fierce counterattack. Head reached his century in just 106 balls, showcasing his aggressive intent, while Smith displayed unyielding defense and remarkable composure.
By the end of the day, the initial threat posed by Mohammed Shami’s exceptional delivery had faded away, and Australia had amassed a commanding total of 327-3. The unbeaten partnership between Head and Smith stood at an impressive 251 runs for the fourth wicket.
India’s hopes of a breakthrough were further dashed as they failed to dismiss any Australian batsmen during the 28-ball spell with the new ball before stumps. The Indian team will now have to regroup and strategize for the upcoming day in the hopes of turning the tide in their favor.
At this point, Australia is in a strong position. The Australian team is securely in control and moving towards winning the desired WTC 2023 title thanks to their unwavering batting performance and the Indian bowlers’ inability to make serious breakthroughs.
Also Read: WTC Finals 2023: 3 Reasons Why Team Bowling First Can Win The Game
