Australia roared back to life with a third consecutive victory. After a shaky start in their first two matches, the Australian team became the news headlines, with some doubting their dominant status.
However, their subsequent performance in the last three games resoundingly affirmed their place as the undisputed kings of the ODI World Cup.
In a spectacular showdown at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Australia secured a big 309-run victory against the Netherlands.
This monumental triumph not only marked the biggest-ever win in World Cup history in terms of runs but also ranks as the second-largest margin of victory in ODIs.
Warner and Maxwell ignited the Arun Jaitley Stadium with their scintillating centuries. Warner’s elegant 104-run innings exuded class, while Maxwell delivered a blockbuster performance, registering the fastest century in ODI World Cup history.
Maxwell, who had been missing in action in recent innings, powered his way to his first 50-plus score in 16 matches, smashing nine boundaries and eight colossal sixes. His reverse sweeps soaring into the stands sent fans into a frenzy.
Smith, who had struggled in the early stages of the World Cup, found his groove and contributed a fine 71-run knock. His command was evident until Roelof van der Merwe’s acrobatic one-handed catch dismissed him.
Australia, having posted over 350 runs in back-to-back matches, set an imposing target of 400 runs for the Netherlands. Unfortunately for the Dutch side, it was not their night to produce another World Cup upset.
Mitchell Starc struck first by dismissing Max O’Dowd for just 6, and from there, it was a steep downhill descent for the Netherlands.
They were reduced to 62 for 5 and eventually bundled out for just 90 runs in 21 overs. Opener Vikramjit Singh top-scored with 25, but six batsmen failed to reach double digits on a batting-friendly pitch.
Adam Zampa once again shone for the Aussies, claiming four wickets for a mere 8 runs, while Mitchell Marsh chipped in with two crucial wickets. The pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood each snatched a wicket, dismantling the Dutch batting lineup with ease.
In the end, it was a big victory that showcased Australia’s resilience and served as a reminder of their dominance in the world of ODI cricket.
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