<p>Australia skipper Pat Cummins has named India pacer Mohammed Shami as a threat for his team ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023 &nbsp;final on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Shami has been on the top of wicket-taking charts with 23 scalps in six innings. Cummins made the comments at the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final.</p>

<p>"India is a pretty well-rounded side. Mohammed Shami is a big one (threat)," said Cummins about the hosts.</p>

<p>Talking about the crowd pressure in the stadium with a capacity of 150,000, Cummins said they expect the support to be one-sided but there's nothing more satisfying than making a big crowd go silent.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-bcci-releases-details-of-ceremonies-during-india-vs-aus-final-no-dua-lipa-check-details-659995">BCCI releases details of ceremonies during India vs AUS final, no Dua Lipa - check details</a></strong></p>

<p>"It's a thing you got to embrace. The crowd is obviously going to be very one-sided. But, in sports there's nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent and that's the aim for us tomorrow."</p>

<p>"You just got to embrace every part of the final. Even the lead up is going to very noise, loud more people and interest. you just can't get overwhelmed."</p>

<p>"You got to be up for it, you got to love it and just know, you know whatever happens it's fine but you just want to finish a day with no regrets," added the Australian skipper.</p>

<p>Talking about the pitch, he said: "It's obviously the same for both teams. No doubt playing on your own wicket, in your own country has some advantages. But we play a lot of cricket over here."</p>

<p>“We have played in India before so noise is not something new. Someone like David Warner would be dancing…while some could be in their own bubble. It’s an even match. There are 6-7 guys who won in 2015, so they know that feeling and won’t be afraid to go out there be brave and take the game on.”</p>

<p>India and Australia will be facing each other in the ODI World Cup final after 20 years. Australia had beaten India by 125 runs last time the two sides had met in the ODI World Cup final which was during the 2003 edition in South Africa.</p>


Australia skipper Pat Cummins has named India pacer Mohammed Shami as a threat for his team ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023 final on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Shami has been on the top of wicket-taking charts with 23 scalps in six innings.

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has named India pacer Mohammed Shami as a threat for his team ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023 final on November 19 in Ahmedabad. Shami has been on the top of wicket-taking charts with 23 scalps in six innings. Cummins made the comments at the pre-match press conference on the eve of the final. "India is a pretty well-rounded side. Mohammed Shami is a big one (threat)," said Cummins about the hosts. Talking about the crowd pressure in the stadium with a capacity of 150,000, Cummins said they expect the support to be one-sided but there's nothing more satisfying than making a big crowd go silent. Also Read: BCCI releases details of ceremonies during India vs AUS final, no Dua Lipa - check details "It's a thing you got to embrace. The crowd is obviously going to be very one-sided. But, in sports there's nothing more satisfying than hearing a big crowd go silent and that's the aim for us tomorrow." "You just got to embrace every part of the final. Even the lead up is going to very noise, loud more people and interest. you just can't get overwhelmed." "You got to be up for it, you got to love it and just know, you know whatever happens it's fine but you just want to finish a day with no regrets," added the Australian skipper. Talking about the pitch, he said: "It's obviously the same for both teams. No doubt playing on your own wicket, in your own country has some advantages. But we play a lot of cricket over here." “We have played in India before so noise is not something new. Someone like David Warner would be dancing…while some could be in their own bubble. It’s an even match. There are 6-7 guys who won in 2015, so they know that feeling and won’t be afraid to go out there be brave and take the game on.” India and Australia will be facing each other in the ODI World Cup final after 20 years. Australia had beaten India by 125 runs last time the two sides had met in the ODI World Cup final which was during the 2003 edition in South Africa.

ODI World Cup 2023: Australia skipper Pat Cummins names THIS India player as THREAT ahead of final

<p>South Africa coach Rob Walter&nbsp;gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all.</p>

<p>"To be honest, there's about one per cent chance I'll be watching. And to be even more brutally honest, I don't care," said Walters as the room full of reporters burst into a laughter. Have a look at the video here:</p>

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<p>Walters reply, however, seems right after his team failed to break the knockout curse yet again. This was the fourth time South Africa failed to win a ODI World Cup semi-final.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-sa-wicketkeeper-quinton-de-kock-retires-from-odis-post-semi-final-loss-vs-australia-659963">SA wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock retires from ODIs post semi-final loss vs Australia</a></p>

<p>The Proteas had a good tournament overall, winning seven of their nine league matches with the losses coming against Netherlands and India only. They were exceptionally good when batting first but got under pressure while chasing.</p>

<p>In the semi-final against Australia, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and elected to bat first. The lethal and accurate bowling by Australia's Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, however, derailed them early on with four quick wickets.</p>

<p>South Africa could never recover from the hole even after David Miller scored a gutsy 101. They eventually folded out for 212 - a below par score for the occasion.</p>

<p>While bowling, openers David Warner and Travis Head gave Australia a flying start by adding 60 quickfire runs. The Proteas spinners then pulled things back but it was always going to be a tough task defending 212.</p>

<p>Australia though lost seven wickets but Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves in the end to seem them through. With the win, Australia entered their record eighth ODI World Cup final and will now face India on November 19 in Ahmedabad.</p>


South Africa coach Rob Walter gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all.

South Africa coach Rob Walter gave a brutal reply when asked who does he think is going to win the ODI World Cup 2023 between India and Australia. Walters was asked the question at the post-match conference after South Africa's loss to Australia in the semi-final on November 16 and he didn't hold back at all. "To be honest, there's about one per cent chance I'll be watching. And to be even more brutally honest, I don't care," said Walters as the room full of reporters burst into a laughter. Have a look at the video here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) × Walters reply, however, seems right after his team failed to break the knockout curse yet again. This was the fourth time South Africa failed to win a ODI World Cup semi-final. Also Read: SA wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock retires from ODIs post semi-final loss vs Australia The Proteas had a good tournament overall, winning seven of their nine league matches with the losses coming against Netherlands and India only. They were exceptionally good when batting first but got under pressure while chasing. In the semi-final against Australia, South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and elected to bat first. The lethal and accurate bowling by Australia's Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, however, derailed them early on with four quick wickets. South Africa could never recover from the hole even after David Miller scored a gutsy 101. They eventually folded out for 212 - a below par score for the occasion. While bowling, openers David Warner and Travis Head gave Australia a flying start by adding 60 quickfire runs. The Proteas spinners then pulled things back but it was always going to be a tough task defending 212. Australia though lost seven wickets but Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc held their nerves in the end to seem them through. With the win, Australia entered their record eighth ODI World Cup final and will now face India on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa coach gives BRUTAL reply on who'll win tournament | WATCH

<p>Australia will have a shot at glory in the ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) after they booked their place in the summit clash against India with a three-wicket win over South Africa. Architect-in-chief of the win, Travis Head was at his best at the Eden Gardens with both bat and ball as produced a 62-run knock coupled with a brace of wickets. Chosen the Player of the Match, he opened up on the challenge while batting as it was a difficult wicket to bat while spinners were in business.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Australia won a nail-biting contest in Kolkata to secure a place in the final of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> 📝: <a href="https://t.co/1iPjdYnIe3">https://t.co/1iPjdYnIe3</a> <a href="https://t.co/NPjiWIDTGT">pic.twitter.com/NPjiWIDTGT</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1725192817771753598?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Head reflects on challenge</strong></h2>

<p>“Didn't move from the seat for the last part. We knew how it was going to play, we had three or four days here. We haven't seen such spin, we knew we had to battle. I thought I wasn't going to be here (after the hand injury), but I am happy to contribute for Australia, nice to be here. Straight as they came (Klaasen dismissal),” Head said while speaking in the POTM presentation.</p>

<p>It was a close call between the traditional rivals as Australia won by three wickets while chasing 213 at the Eden Gardens.</p>

<p>They won with 16 balls to spare but needed a good helping hand from the tailenders to reach the final. David Warner (29) and Travis Head (62) made sure the five-time champions got off to a perfect start with a 60-run stand.</p>

<p>However, successive wickets jolted their momentum but Steven Smith (30) and Josh Inglis did enough to get the Aussies over the line. Marnus Labuschagne also scored an important 18 while South Africa bowlers were in little mood.</p>

<p>“He (Klaasen) smacked me, was under the pump, but it was nice to get his wicket. I was prepared to bowl a few overs, always keen to contribute with the ball. We have had that positive approach to keep the pace rolling,” Head added.</p>

<p>There were wickets for Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Gerald Coetzee, and Keshav Maharaj while their stand-out bowler was Tabraiz Shamsi with two.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-kane-williamson-shuts-down-pitch-controversy-while-gavaskar-terms-critics-morons-659184">World Cup 2023: Kane Williamson shuts down pitch controversy while Gavaskar terms critics 'morons'</a></p>

<h2><strong>South Africa slump with bat</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Australia steamrolled South Africa batters with a dominant show as they reduced the Proteas to 212 in 49.4 overs.</p>

<p>David Miller was the only silver lining for South Africa as he top-scored with 101 before they were bowled out.</p>

<p>Skipper Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc were the stars of the show for the Aussies as they scalped eight wickets between them. Starc ended with impressive figures of 34/3 in his 10 overs while Cummins ended with 51/3. Travis Head scalped two wickets in the contest in his five overs.</p>

<p>Australia will next take on India in the ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The summit clash will decide the next world champions as both India and Australia look to add to their tally.</p>


Australia will have a shot at glory in the ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) after they booked their place in the summit clash against India with a three-wicket win over South Africa.

Australia will have a shot at glory in the ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) after they booked their place in the summit clash against India with a three-wicket win over South Africa. Architect-in-chief of the win, Travis Head was at his best at the Eden Gardens with both bat and ball as produced a 62-run knock coupled with a brace of wickets. Chosen the Player of the Match, he opened up on the challenge while batting as it was a difficult wicket to bat while spinners were in business. Australia won a nail-biting contest in Kolkata to secure a place in the final of the #CWC23 👏#SAvAUS 📝: https://t.co/1iPjdYnIe3 pic.twitter.com/NPjiWIDTGT — ICC (@ICC) November 16, 2023 × Head reflects on challenge “Didn't move from the seat for the last part. We knew how it was going to play, we had three or four days here. We haven't seen such spin, we knew we had to battle. I thought I wasn't going to be here (after the hand injury), but I am happy to contribute for Australia, nice to be here. Straight as they came (Klaasen dismissal),” Head said while speaking in the POTM presentation. It was a close call between the traditional rivals as Australia won by three wickets while chasing 213 at the Eden Gardens. They won with 16 balls to spare but needed a good helping hand from the tailenders to reach the final. David Warner (29) and Travis Head (62) made sure the five-time champions got off to a perfect start with a 60-run stand. However, successive wickets jolted their momentum but Steven Smith (30) and Josh Inglis did enough to get the Aussies over the line. Marnus Labuschagne also scored an important 18 while South Africa bowlers were in little mood. “He (Klaasen) smacked me, was under the pump, but it was nice to get his wicket. I was prepared to bowl a few overs, always keen to contribute with the ball. We have had that positive approach to keep the pace rolling,” Head added. There were wickets for Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Gerald Coetzee, and Keshav Maharaj while their stand-out bowler was Tabraiz Shamsi with two. ALSO READ | World Cup 2023: Kane Williamson shuts down pitch controversy while Gavaskar terms critics 'morons' South Africa slump with bat Earlier, Australia steamrolled South Africa batters with a dominant show as they reduced the Proteas to 212 in 49.4 overs. David Miller was the only silver lining for South Africa as he top-scored with 101 before they were bowled out. Skipper Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc were the stars of the show for the Aussies as they scalped eight wickets between them. Starc ended with impressive figures of 34/3 in his 10 overs while Cummins ended with 51/3. Travis Head scalped two wickets in the contest in his five overs. Australia will next take on India in the ODI World Cup final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The summit clash will decide the next world champions as both India and Australia look to add to their tally.

ODI World Cup 2023: We haven't seen such spin - POTM Travis Head reflects after tense win over SA in Kolkata

<p>The legendary former Australia batter Ian Chappell has termed Virat Kohli as the best batter of the current year as India get ready for the ODI World Cup final on Sunday. Virat has been in sensational form at the ODI World Cup, having scored 711 runs in 10 matches so far while setting a new record for most runs in a single ODI World Cup edition. According to Chappell, Kohli is enjoying the form of his life despite turning 35 recently and terms him best ahead of some of them modern-day greats.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A shot at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> glory 💎🏆 <a href="https://t.co/8Iy5I48dEp">pic.twitter.com/8Iy5I48dEp</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1725407684768522457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Chappell in awe of Kohli</strong></h2>

<p>“No, we haven’t. (on Smith’s best form). Let’s go back to Kohli first. He doesn’t anymore but there was a point in his career where he averaged over 50 in all three formats. Now, that’s a remarkable performance. I think Kohli is probably the best batsman of this era,” Chappell said while speaking on Wide World of Sports.</p>

<p>“I like his attitude. I heard him interviewed about batting and I think he’s got a terrific approach to batting. The other thing to look at is his fitness. He is 36 years of age, have a look at how he was running between the wickets. He has obviously put fitness right up there," the former Aussie skipper added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-final-weather-pitch-report-for-narendra-modi-stadium-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-world-cup-clash-659708">IND vs AUS final: Weather &amp; pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash</a></p>

<h2><strong>Kohli’s excellent run</strong></h2>

<p>India will look to bank on Kohli’s excellent run of form in the World Cup final when they face Chappell’s native Australia in the final. India have so far lost both their International Cricket Council (ICC) finals against the Aussies, including the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June. The teams famously met in the 2003 World Cup final when Sourav Ganguly’s side lost by 125 runs where current head coach Rahul Dravid served as a team member.</p>

<p>India will have a score to settle with Pat Cummins’ side at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday while they hunt for their sixth title in the 50-over format. Hosts India on the other hand will target their third title in the format having previously won the title in 1983 and 2011 under Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni respectively.</p>


The legendary former Australia batter Ian Chappell has termed Virat Kohli as the best batter of the current year as India get ready for the ODI World Cup final on Sunday.

The legendary former Australia batter Ian Chappell has termed Virat Kohli as the best batter of the current year as India get ready for the ODI World Cup final on Sunday. Virat has been in sensational form at the ODI World Cup, having scored 711 runs in 10 matches so far while setting a new record for most runs in a single ODI World Cup edition. According to Chappell, Kohli is enjoying the form of his life despite turning 35 recently and terms him best ahead of some of them modern-day greats. A shot at #CWC23 glory 💎🏆 pic.twitter.com/8Iy5I48dEp — ICC (@ICC) November 17, 2023 × Chappell in awe of Kohli “No, we haven’t. (on Smith’s best form). Let’s go back to Kohli first. He doesn’t anymore but there was a point in his career where he averaged over 50 in all three formats. Now, that’s a remarkable performance. I think Kohli is probably the best batsman of this era,” Chappell said while speaking on Wide World of Sports. “I like his attitude. I heard him interviewed about batting and I think he’s got a terrific approach to batting. The other thing to look at is his fitness. He is 36 years of age, have a look at how he was running between the wickets. He has obviously put fitness right up there," the former Aussie skipper added. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS final: Weather & pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash Kohli’s excellent run India will look to bank on Kohli’s excellent run of form in the World Cup final when they face Chappell’s native Australia in the final. India have so far lost both their International Cricket Council (ICC) finals against the Aussies, including the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June. The teams famously met in the 2003 World Cup final when Sourav Ganguly’s side lost by 125 runs where current head coach Rahul Dravid served as a team member. India will have a score to settle with Pat Cummins’ side at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday while they hunt for their sixth title in the 50-over format. Hosts India on the other hand will target their third title in the format having previously won the title in 1983 and 2011 under Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni respectively.

ODI World Cup 2023: Australia legend in awe of Virat Kohli, terms 'best batter' of current era

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to make the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final the grandest event of the year. While the players continue to practice and put in hard yards for the marquee clash, the board officials are determined to make this event watch-worthy by adding several attractions.</p>

<p>Per the latest reports, the BCCI will honour all the World Cup winning captains, excluding Pakistan ex-PM and 1992 winner Imran Khan, currently in prison, with a special blazer representing the World Cup 2023. The reports further suggest an air show by the Suryakiran Acrobatic team will open the final, while music-composer Pritam will also perform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such efforts are like the cherry on the cake for the final, which promises to be an exciting contest between top teams in this tournament.</p>

<p>With all World Cup winning captains – Clive Lloyd (West Indies), Kapil Dev (India), Allan Border (Australia), Arjuna Ranatunga (Sri Lanka), Steve Waugh (Australia), Ricky Ponting (Australia), MS Dhoni (India), Michael Clarke (Australia) and Eoin Morgan (England), present at the gigantic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, it would be a sight to behold for all onlookers.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-invites-australia-prime-minister-anthony-albanese-watch-india-vs-australia-world-cup-final-in-ahmedabad-659729">BCCI invites Australia PM Anthony Albanese to watch India vs Australia World Cup final in Ahmedabad</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides, several reports in the Indian media also suggested that BCCI has invited Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to watch the India vs Australia World Cup final in Ahmedabad. With countless fans present inside the arena, whose sitting capacity is over 100,000, numerous stars from the film industry are also likely to grace the occasion with their presence.</p>

<h2>India – Australia set for mouth-watering clash</h2>

<p>Entering into the contest with momentum on their sides, India and Australia will be confident of taking the game away. While India is in red-hot form, remaining unbeaten in 10 contested matches thus far, Australia will walk into this summit clash with eight consecutive wins.</p>

<p>In the first semi-final, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer starred with the bat, hitting their maiden respective CWC hundreds. Mohammed Shami stole the show in the second innings with his seven-wicket haul, helping India win by 70 runs.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Australia beat South Africa by three wickets in a tight contest to stand tall. In the repeat of the 1999 and 2007 World Cup semi-finals, Australia restricted Proteas to 212 despite a stunning hundred from David Miller. Travis Head slammed a fifty during the chase as Aussies, with help from keeper-batter Josh Inglis and the tailenders chased the target.</p>


The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to make the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final the grandest event of the year.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to make the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final the grandest event of the year. While the players continue to practice and put in hard yards for the marquee clash, the board officials are determined to make this event watch-worthy by adding several attractions. Per the latest reports, the BCCI will honour all the World Cup winning captains, excluding Pakistan ex-PM and 1992 winner Imran Khan, currently in prison, with a special blazer representing the World Cup 2023. The reports further suggest an air show by the Suryakiran Acrobatic team will open the final, while music-composer Pritam will also perform. Such efforts are like the cherry on the cake for the final, which promises to be an exciting contest between top teams in this tournament. With all World Cup winning captains – Clive Lloyd (West Indies), Kapil Dev (India), Allan Border (Australia), Arjuna Ranatunga (Sri Lanka), Steve Waugh (Australia), Ricky Ponting (Australia), MS Dhoni (India), Michael Clarke (Australia) and Eoin Morgan (England), present at the gigantic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, it would be a sight to behold for all onlookers. ALSO READ: BCCI invites Australia PM Anthony Albanese to watch India vs Australia World Cup final in Ahmedabad Besides, several reports in the Indian media also suggested that BCCI has invited Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to watch the India vs Australia World Cup final in Ahmedabad. With countless fans present inside the arena, whose sitting capacity is over 100,000, numerous stars from the film industry are also likely to grace the occasion with their presence. India – Australia set for mouth-watering clash Entering into the contest with momentum on their sides, India and Australia will be confident of taking the game away. While India is in red-hot form, remaining unbeaten in 10 contested matches thus far, Australia will walk into this summit clash with eight consecutive wins. In the first semi-final, Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer starred with the bat, hitting their maiden respective CWC hundreds. Mohammed Shami stole the show in the second innings with his seven-wicket haul, helping India win by 70 runs. On the other hand, Australia beat South Africa by three wickets in a tight contest to stand tall. In the repeat of the 1999 and 2007 World Cup semi-finals, Australia restricted Proteas to 212 despite a stunning hundred from David Miller. Travis Head slammed a fifty during the chase as Aussies, with help from keeper-batter Josh Inglis and the tailenders chased the target.

From air show to presenting special blazer to winning captains, check out main attractions for CWC final

<p>The BCCI has invited Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to watch the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 16), per the latest reports. Although no official confirmation around this is out yet, if Anthony accepts the invitation, he will join his counterpart, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in watching the clash of the titans at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the Australian Team beat South Africa by three wickets in one of the most closely fought contests at the CWC stage at the Eden Gardens. A day before, on Wednesday, hosts India beat New Zealand by 70 runs in Mumbai to enter their fourth World Cup final.</p>

<p>While India’s record in the final is 2-1, having won twice before in 1983 and 2011, Australia entered their record eighth CWC final, leading 5-2. The Aussies are the most successful team in the tournament history, having won in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2015.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-south-africas-aiden-markram-almost-breaks-down-in-three-wicket-loss-vs-australia-659698">ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH | South Africa's Aiden Markram almost BREAKS DOWN in three-wicket loss vs Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Besides this, an air show will open the final at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, with several A-Listers to also grace their presence in the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final.</p>

<h2>Australia beat South Africa in second semi-final</h2>

<p>At the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Australia came on top in the second semi-final, beating the Proteas by three wickets in a nail-biter. While David Miller starred for South Africa, hitting his maiden CWC semis hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight with his all-round show. Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc were among the wickets too.</p>

<p>David Warner and Steve Smith contributed with handy 20s and 30s, but it was Josh Inglis, alongside the tail, helping Australia stand tall in the end.</p>

<h3>Not stopping Indian Team</h3>

<p>Be it on the runs chart or the wickets, the Indian players are winning everywhere. While Virat Kohli leads the run-scoring list with over 700 runs in 10 matches (most by any batter in history), Mohammed Shami, with his unparalleled performance, stays ahead of everyone in the bowling department.</p>

<p>Outside of the top three, which will hold the keys in the final against Australia, the middle order coming to the party has benefited India in this tournament.</p>


The BCCI has invited Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to watch the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 16), per the latest reports.

The BCCI has invited Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to watch the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 16), per the latest reports. Although no official confirmation around this is out yet, if Anthony accepts the invitation, he will join his counterpart, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in watching the clash of the titans at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. On Thursday, the Australian Team beat South Africa by three wickets in one of the most closely fought contests at the CWC stage at the Eden Gardens. A day before, on Wednesday, hosts India beat New Zealand by 70 runs in Mumbai to enter their fourth World Cup final. While India’s record in the final is 2-1, having won twice before in 1983 and 2011, Australia entered their record eighth CWC final, leading 5-2. The Aussies are the most successful team in the tournament history, having won in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2015. ALSO READ: ODI World Cup 2023: WATCH | South Africa's Aiden Markram almost BREAKS DOWN in three-wicket loss vs Australia Besides this, an air show will open the final at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, with several A-Listers to also grace their presence in the India vs Australia World Cup 2023 final. Australia beat South Africa in second semi-final At the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Australia came on top in the second semi-final, beating the Proteas by three wickets in a nail-biter. While David Miller starred for South Africa, hitting his maiden CWC semis hundred, Travis Head hogged the limelight with his all-round show. Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc were among the wickets too. David Warner and Steve Smith contributed with handy 20s and 30s, but it was Josh Inglis, alongside the tail, helping Australia stand tall in the end. Not stopping Indian Team Be it on the runs chart or the wickets, the Indian players are winning everywhere. While Virat Kohli leads the run-scoring list with over 700 runs in 10 matches (most by any batter in history), Mohammed Shami, with his unparalleled performance, stays ahead of everyone in the bowling department. Outside of the top three, which will hold the keys in the final against Australia, the middle order coming to the party has benefited India in this tournament.

BCCI invites Australia PM Anthony Albanese to watch India vs Australia World Cup final in Ahmedabad

<p>India and Australia are set to lock horns&nbsp;in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which will be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19). Ahead of the summit clash, India's 1983 World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels R Ashwin has an 'outside chance' to feature in the playing XI. It is to be noted that Ashwin has got only one game so far in the tournament, when India faced Australia in Chennai on Oct 8.</p>

<h2><strong>'I do not think that India will opt to change the winning combination'</strong></h2>

<p>While speaking on Aajtak, Lal said, "Ravichandran Ashwin’s selection will depend on the conditions of the pitch. But I do not think that India will opt to change the winning combination in the final against Australia."</p>

<p>“Australia did not look comfortable at all playing Tabraiz Shamsi (in the second semi-final)) and they will not be comfortable playing Kuldeep Yadav either and I believe that you will get a great track to bat on in Ahmedabad,” the former India player further added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-final-india-favourites-but-i-dare-you-to-count-australia-out-feels-ian-bishop-659690">ODI World Cup 2023 final: India favourites but I dare you to count Australia out, feels Ian Bishop</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin was drafted in India's final CWC squad after Axar Patel's injury.</p>

<p>Since then, he played in only one game -- against Australia where he ended with 1&nbsp;for 34. The wily off-spinner can come handy versus the Men in Yellow as they have two left-handed openers whereas the 37-year-old is more than reliable with the bat as well. However, there is very less chance of India tweaking their winning combination for the mega finale in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last time India played in Ahmedabad was when they took on arch-rivals Pakistan in match 14 of the CWC 2023 edition, on Oct 14. Back then, Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 19 starred with the ball to guide India to a memorable seven-wicket win.</p>


India and Australia are set to lock horns in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which will be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19).

India and Australia are set to lock horns in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which will be held at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday (Nov 19). Ahead of the summit clash, India's 1983 World Cup-winning member Madan Lal feels R Ashwin has an 'outside chance' to feature in the playing XI. It is to be noted that Ashwin has got only one game so far in the tournament, when India faced Australia in Chennai on Oct 8. 'I do not think that India will opt to change the winning combination' While speaking on Aajtak, Lal said, "Ravichandran Ashwin’s selection will depend on the conditions of the pitch. But I do not think that India will opt to change the winning combination in the final against Australia." “Australia did not look comfortable at all playing Tabraiz Shamsi (in the second semi-final)) and they will not be comfortable playing Kuldeep Yadav either and I believe that you will get a great track to bat on in Ahmedabad,” the former India player further added. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023 final: India favourites but I dare you to count Australia out, feels Ian Bishop Ashwin was drafted in India's final CWC squad after Axar Patel's injury. Since then, he played in only one game -- against Australia where he ended with 1 for 34. The wily off-spinner can come handy versus the Men in Yellow as they have two left-handed openers whereas the 37-year-old is more than reliable with the bat as well. However, there is very less chance of India tweaking their winning combination for the mega finale in Ahmedabad. The last time India played in Ahmedabad was when they took on arch-rivals Pakistan in match 14 of the CWC 2023 edition, on Oct 14. Back then, Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 19 starred with the ball to guide India to a memorable seven-wicket win.

ODI WC final: 'He might have an outside chance to play': Ex-cricketer on THIS India player for Australia tie

<p>India are set to take on Australia in the CWC 2023 final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. So far, India have been on a rampage, winning 10&nbsp;games in the ongoing competition. They will meet the Aussies, who are on an eight-match winning streak, and, thus, it promises to be an enthralling finale.</p>

<p>Ahead of the final, former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik heaped praise on KL Rahul -- one of India's top-performers in the ODI WC. In nine games, Rahul has held on to some impressive catches behind the stumps and scored 386 runs batting at No. 5; playing different roles as per match situations. Malik, thus, lauded Rahul and labelled him the 'best at No. 5 in world cricket'.</p>

<h2><strong>'He can finish the match, can improvise, can play with a good strike rate'</strong></h2>

<p>Malik said while speaking on&nbsp;A Sports' show The Pavillion, "The best at No 5 in the world cricket. Klassen (Heinrich) needs a base to get going. But if you compare, India have got the best batter at 5, who can play in any sort of situation. This is why KL bats at 5. If India lose two or three wickets early, he is someone, who can play according to the situation."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-wc-final-he-might-have-an-outside-chance-to-play-ex-cricketer-on-this-india-player-for-australia-tie-659724">ODI WC final: 'He might have an outside chance to play': Ex-cricketer on THIS India player for Australia tie</a></strong></p>

<p>"He can finish the match, can improvise, can play with a good strike rate, and we have seen it today. He is good against spinners as well as the pacers. He picks the gaps and plays the field. Against Australia, we have seen, he was the one who finished the match,"&nbsp;Malik added.</p>

<p>Rahul has had scores of 97*, 19*, 34*, 27, 39, 21, 8, 102, 39* in the ODI WC at home. The right-hander has been more than handy behind the stumps as well, assisting captain Rohit Sharma with DRS calls and holding on to most of the chances (stumpings or catching opportunities). He will hope to make a mark in the upcoming final as well to help India win their third 50-over WC title.</p>


India are set to take on Australia in the CWC 2023 final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. So far, India have been on a rampage, winning 10 games in the ongoing competition.

India are set to take on Australia in the CWC 2023 final on Sunday (Nov 19) at the iconic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. So far, India have been on a rampage, winning 10 games in the ongoing competition. They will meet the Aussies, who are on an eight-match winning streak, and, thus, it promises to be an enthralling finale. Ahead of the final, former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik heaped praise on KL Rahul -- one of India's top-performers in the ODI WC. In nine games, Rahul has held on to some impressive catches behind the stumps and scored 386 runs batting at No. 5; playing different roles as per match situations. Malik, thus, lauded Rahul and labelled him the 'best at No. 5 in world cricket'. 'He can finish the match, can improvise, can play with a good strike rate' Malik said while speaking on A Sports' show The Pavillion, "The best at No 5 in the world cricket. Klassen (Heinrich) needs a base to get going. But if you compare, India have got the best batter at 5, who can play in any sort of situation. This is why KL bats at 5. If India lose two or three wickets early, he is someone, who can play according to the situation." Also read: ODI WC final: 'He might have an outside chance to play': Ex-cricketer on THIS India player for Australia tie "He can finish the match, can improvise, can play with a good strike rate, and we have seen it today. He is good against spinners as well as the pacers. He picks the gaps and plays the field. Against Australia, we have seen, he was the one who finished the match," Malik added. Rahul has had scores of 97*, 19*, 34*, 27, 39, 21, 8, 102, 39* in the ODI WC at home. The right-hander has been more than handy behind the stumps as well, assisting captain Rohit Sharma with DRS calls and holding on to most of the chances (stumpings or catching opportunities). He will hope to make a mark in the upcoming final as well to help India win their third 50-over WC title.

World Cup 2023: 'KL Rahul is the best No. 5 in world cricket - Former Pak captain lauds Indian stumper

<p>It will be a shot at redemption for Team India on Sunday (Nov 19) when Rohit Sharma’s men take on Australia in the final of the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The contest will be a repeat of the 2003 ODI World Cup final when India faced the Aussies at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. Since then, plenty of water has gone under the bridge as both teams have tasted success on multiple fronts with energetic leadership on offer.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A shot at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> glory 💎🏆 <a href="https://t.co/8Iy5I48dEp">pic.twitter.com/8Iy5I48dEp</a></p>
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<h2><strong>What happened in the 2003 ODI World Cup final?</strong></h2>

<p>Having lost by eight wickets in the league stage meeting, India skipper Sourav Ganguly opted to field first after having won the toss. India had lost by nine wickets in the league stage meeting, which had influenced Ganguly’s decision to bowl first in the final. However, Australia, then led by Ricky Ponting, had no issues taking the guards first with reliable Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden opening for them.</p>

<p>Gilchrist and Hayden stitched a partnership of 105 runs for the opening wicket, with Gilchrist scoring 57 while Hayden would later get dismissed for 37. Both wickets fell in quick succession, scalped by Harbhajan Singh, but there was not much joy for the Indian team. Ponting scored an unbeaten 140 off 121 deliveries consisting of 8 sixes and 4 fours. His innings and an unbeaten partnership of 234 runs with Damien Martyn helped Australia to a massive 359-run total in the final. Martin would score an unbeaten 88 and support Ponting in the massive partnership against the Indian bowling line-up.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-final-weather-pitch-report-for-narendra-modi-stadium-ahead-of-india-vs-australia-world-cup-clash-659708">IND vs AUS final: Weather &amp; pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash</a></p>

<h2><strong>India started poorly</strong></h2>

<p>Eyeing a massive 360 runs to win, India needed a good start with openers Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag in the middle. Tendulkar, playing in his first final, made an unexpected decision of batting at the striker's end while usually starting at the non-striker's end. He scored a four on the fourth ball of the innings and looked set to help India chase the target, but that joy was short-lived as Glenn McGrath caught and bowled the India legend on the very next ball. That broke millions of Indian hearts, as Tendulkar departed for four.</p>

<p>Then came some handy knocks in the chase from skipper Ganguly (24), Rahul Dravid (47), and Yuvraj Singh (24) to help India stay in the chase. Sehwag at the other end was fighting the fort alone with a composed innings while others could not resist the Australian bowling lineup. However, his warrior innings came to an unfortunate end in the 24th over when he was run out on 82. Later rest of the batters returned without troubling the scorers with much affection as India were bowled out for 234 runs in 39.2 overs with rain also paying a visit in between.</p>

<p>India’s only consolation on the day was Sachin Tendulkar’s Player of the Tournament performance for which he was awarded a golden bat by South African leader&nbsp;Nelson Mandela. Australia would win the contest by 125 runs and clinch their second consecutive World Cup while winning their third overall.</p>


It will be a shot at redemption for Team India on Sunday (Nov 19) when Rohit Sharma’s men take on Australia in the final of the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

It will be a shot at redemption for Team India on Sunday (Nov 19) when Rohit Sharma’s men take on Australia in the final of the ODI World Cup at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The contest will be a repeat of the 2003 ODI World Cup final when India faced the Aussies at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. Since then, plenty of water has gone under the bridge as both teams have tasted success on multiple fronts with energetic leadership on offer. A shot at #CWC23 glory 💎🏆 pic.twitter.com/8Iy5I48dEp — ICC (@ICC) November 17, 2023 × What happened in the 2003 ODI World Cup final? Having lost by eight wickets in the league stage meeting, India skipper Sourav Ganguly opted to field first after having won the toss. India had lost by nine wickets in the league stage meeting, which had influenced Ganguly’s decision to bowl first in the final. However, Australia, then led by Ricky Ponting, had no issues taking the guards first with reliable Adam Gilchrist and Matthew Hayden opening for them. Gilchrist and Hayden stitched a partnership of 105 runs for the opening wicket, with Gilchrist scoring 57 while Hayden would later get dismissed for 37. Both wickets fell in quick succession, scalped by Harbhajan Singh, but there was not much joy for the Indian team. Ponting scored an unbeaten 140 off 121 deliveries consisting of 8 sixes and 4 fours. His innings and an unbeaten partnership of 234 runs with Damien Martyn helped Australia to a massive 359-run total in the final. Martin would score an unbeaten 88 and support Ponting in the massive partnership against the Indian bowling line-up. ALSO READ | IND vs AUS final: Weather & pitch report for Narendra Modi stadium ahead of India vs Australia World Cup clash India started poorly Eyeing a massive 360 runs to win, India needed a good start with openers Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag in the middle. Tendulkar, playing in his first final, made an unexpected decision of batting at the striker's end while usually starting at the non-striker's end. He scored a four on the fourth ball of the innings and looked set to help India chase the target, but that joy was short-lived as Glenn McGrath caught and bowled the India legend on the very next ball. That broke millions of Indian hearts, as Tendulkar departed for four. Then came some handy knocks in the chase from skipper Ganguly (24), Rahul Dravid (47), and Yuvraj Singh (24) to help India stay in the chase. Sehwag at the other end was fighting the fort alone with a composed innings while others could not resist the Australian bowling lineup. However, his warrior innings came to an unfortunate end in the 24th over when he was run out on 82. Later rest of the batters returned without troubling the scorers with much affection as India were bowled out for 234 runs in 39.2 overs with rain also paying a visit in between. India’s only consolation on the day was Sachin Tendulkar’s Player of the Tournament performance for which he was awarded a golden bat by South African leader Nelson Mandela. Australia would win the contest by 125 runs and clinch their second consecutive World Cup while winning their third overall.

What happened last time India vs Australia contest took place in ODI World Cup Final? | Know More

<p>Australia beat South Africa by three wickets, in pursuit of 213, in the second semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup on Thursday (Nov 16) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With this, the Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow have secured a place in the final, where they will meet hosts India on Nov 19 (Sunday) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Many former cricketers and experts of the game have labelled Rohit Sharma-led India the favourites to win the finals. India have been on a rampage, winning all their 10 games so far in the marquee event at home. However, Australia know how to bring their A-game in ICC finals (having won the ODI WC on five occasions, most by any) and have also revamped in style in the ongoing competition.</p>

<p>Losing their first two games, Australia bounced back in style with an eight-match winning streak to set up a final date with India. Thus, former West Indies pacer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop feels India are favourites but Aussies cannot be ruled out at any cost.</p>

<h2><strong>'I will say it one more time, Australia have a championship pedigree'</strong></h2>

<p>"Two teams, in India's case, they have been playing well on all games. Australia now looking to peak, this is a dream for fans of both nations, the neutrals and broadcasters like me. There will be so much entertainment, come Sunday," Ian Bishop told Star Sports.</p>

<p>"Two teams, one India with some batting form and all-round bowling form, that suggests they probably will go into this final as favourites, but an Australian team, I will say it one more time, they have a championship pedigree, you can't and will not, I dare you to count them out of the contest. It will be really competitive. Two best teams in the final, you think?" he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shots-fired-australia-are-vulnerable-ahead-of-india-clash-feels-gautam-gambhir-prior-to-cwc-23-final-659631">Shots fired! Australia are vulnerable ahead of India clash, feels Gautam Gambhir prior to CWC '23 final</a></strong></p>

<p>During the same interaction, former India opener and batting coach Sanjay Bangar also joined in and said, "It's going to be a cracker of a game. Two teams who have played dominant games. India have won 10 in a row. And Australia are not far behind. It's a terrific final. After 2003, I remember I was part of the squad when Australia beat India. It's going to be great game. Let's hope, this time around, Australia are able to put one across India."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both teams met once in the ongoing ten-team tournament, where India beat Australia by six wickets -- chasing 200 in Chennai -- on Oct 8. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around or Aussies manage to topple India.</p>


Australia beat South Africa by three wickets, in pursuit of 213, in the second semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup on Thursday (Nov 16) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Australia beat South Africa by three wickets, in pursuit of 213, in the second semi-final of the 2023 ODI World Cup on Thursday (Nov 16) at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. With this, the Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow have secured a place in the final, where they will meet hosts India on Nov 19 (Sunday) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. Many former cricketers and experts of the game have labelled Rohit Sharma-led India the favourites to win the finals. India have been on a rampage, winning all their 10 games so far in the marquee event at home. However, Australia know how to bring their A-game in ICC finals (having won the ODI WC on five occasions, most by any) and have also revamped in style in the ongoing competition. Losing their first two games, Australia bounced back in style with an eight-match winning streak to set up a final date with India. Thus, former West Indies pacer-turned-commentator Ian Bishop feels India are favourites but Aussies cannot be ruled out at any cost. 'I will say it one more time, Australia have a championship pedigree' "Two teams, in India's case, they have been playing well on all games. Australia now looking to peak, this is a dream for fans of both nations, the neutrals and broadcasters like me. There will be so much entertainment, come Sunday," Ian Bishop told Star Sports. "Two teams, one India with some batting form and all-round bowling form, that suggests they probably will go into this final as favourites, but an Australian team, I will say it one more time, they have a championship pedigree, you can't and will not, I dare you to count them out of the contest. It will be really competitive. Two best teams in the final, you think?" he added. Also read: Shots fired! Australia are vulnerable ahead of India clash, feels Gautam Gambhir prior to CWC '23 final During the same interaction, former India opener and batting coach Sanjay Bangar also joined in and said, "It's going to be a cracker of a game. Two teams who have played dominant games. India have won 10 in a row. And Australia are not far behind. It's a terrific final. After 2003, I remember I was part of the squad when Australia beat India. It's going to be great game. Let's hope, this time around, Australia are able to put one across India." Both teams met once in the ongoing ten-team tournament, where India beat Australia by six wickets -- chasing 200 in Chennai -- on Oct 8. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around or Aussies manage to topple India.

ODI World Cup 2023 final: India favourites but I dare you to count Australia out, says Ian Bishop

<p>Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad. Asked to bowl first, Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow rode on Mitchell Starc's 3 for 34, Cummins' 3 for 51 and two wickets each from Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head to dismiss Proteas for 212 in 49.4 overs.</p>

<p>In reply, Australia started off aggressively courtesy of Head's attacking 48-ball 62 but were soon reduced to 137 for 5, after being 60 for no loss, but somehow managed to get past the finish line by three wickets in 47.2&nbsp;overs. Thus, it will be a repeat of the 2003 final as hosts India will face Australia in the mega finale on Sunday in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the clash, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a big statement. He feels Australia are 'very vulnerable' ahead of the India clash as they struggled to chase down 213 versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-big-claim-ex-pak-stumper-backs-babar-azam-to-break-virat-kohlis-50-odi-centuries-record-659604">CWC '23: BIG CLAIM! Ex-Pak stumper backs Babar Azam to break Virat Kohli's 50 ODI centuries record</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir said on Star Sports after Australia's semi-final win, "Don't think Australia brought their A-game in the semi-final. Australia are still very vulnerable, but yes, they know how to win these knockout games. India will have to play their A-game in the final, which they have been playing since the last 10 matches. India are going to be very confident facing Australia in Ahmedabad."</p>

<p>Both India and Australia met each other in their respective CWC '23 openers on Oct 8 in Chennai. Back then, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue chased down 200 with six wickets in hand. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around in the summit clash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will India clinch their third&nbsp;ODI WC title or will Australia win their sixth trophy in the tournament history? Only&nbsp;time will tell...</p>


Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad.

Australia edged past South Africa in the second semi-final of the ODI World Cup, on Thursday (Nov 16) in Kolkata, to book a place in the final where they will meet India on Sunday (Nov 19) in Ahmedabad. Asked to bowl first, Pat Cummins-led Men in Yellow rode on Mitchell Starc's 3 for 34, Cummins' 3 for 51 and two wickets each from Josh Hazlewood and Travis Head to dismiss Proteas for 212 in 49.4 overs. In reply, Australia started off aggressively courtesy of Head's attacking 48-ball 62 but were soon reduced to 137 for 5, after being 60 for no loss, but somehow managed to get past the finish line by three wickets in 47.2 overs. Thus, it will be a repeat of the 2003 final as hosts India will face Australia in the mega finale on Sunday in Ahmedabad. Prior to the clash, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a big statement. He feels Australia are 'very vulnerable' ahead of the India clash as they struggled to chase down 213 versus the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Also read: CWC '23: BIG CLAIM! Ex-Pak stumper backs Babar Azam to break Virat Kohli's 50 ODI centuries record Gambhir said on Star Sports after Australia's semi-final win, "Don't think Australia brought their A-game in the semi-final. Australia are still very vulnerable, but yes, they know how to win these knockout games. India will have to play their A-game in the final, which they have been playing since the last 10 matches. India are going to be very confident facing Australia in Ahmedabad." Both India and Australia met each other in their respective CWC '23 openers on Oct 8 in Chennai. Back then, Rohit Sharma-led Men in Blue chased down 200 with six wickets in hand. It will be interesting to see if the script remains the same this time around in the summit clash. Will India clinch their third ODI WC title or will Australia win their sixth trophy in the tournament history? Only time will tell...

Shots fired! Australia are vulnerable ahead of India clash, feels Gautam Gambhir prior to CWC '23 final

<p>India all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be missing the five-T20I series against Australia set to be played after the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with injury. Pandya sustained an ankle injury during India's league stage match against Bangladesh on October 19 and was subsequently ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover in time. The developments were first reported by ESPNCricinfo.</p>

<p>Pandya was advised six to eight weeks of rest by the BCCI medical staff after twisting his ankle in the match against Bangladesh. Initially, Pandya was expected to get fit for India's last league match against Netherlands on November 12 but failing to do so saw him being replaced with Prasidh Krishna in the India squad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-kane-williamson-asserts-anything-can-happen-when-new-zealand-play-their-best-cricket-658648">Kane Williamson asserts 'anything can happen' when New Zealand play 'their best cricket'</a></p>

<p>The squad for the T20I series against Australia is expected to be announced on November 15 - the day India take on New Zealand in the ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final. The selectors, led by former India bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar are also expected to rest key players who are part of the World Cup squad in lieu of workload management.</p>

<p>With most of India's World Cup 2023 squad expected to be rested, fringe players like Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Jitesh Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and others - who played in Asian Games 2023 and won a gold, may get a chance to play.</p>

<p>The series starts on November 23 in Visakhapatnam and ends on December 3 in Bengaluru. The other three matches will be played on November 26, November 28 and December 1 in Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati and Nagpur, respectively.</p>

<p>Apart from the players, head coach Rahul Dravid is also expected to be rested for the series, reported ESPNCricinfo. In his place, NCA director VVS Laxman may take on the reins. Notably, Dravid's two-year contract is also ending after the World Cup but there are no updates on his extension or replacement as of now.</p>


India all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be missing the five-T20I series against Australia set to be played after the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with injury. Pandya sustained an ankle injury during India's league stage match against Bangladesh on October 19 and was subsequently ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover in time.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya will be missing the five-T20I series against Australia set to be played after the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 with injury. Pandya sustained an ankle injury during India's league stage match against Bangladesh on October 19 and was subsequently ruled out of the tournament after failing to recover in time. The developments were first reported by ESPNCricinfo. Pandya was advised six to eight weeks of rest by the BCCI medical staff after twisting his ankle in the match against Bangladesh. Initially, Pandya was expected to get fit for India's last league match against Netherlands on November 12 but failing to do so saw him being replaced with Prasidh Krishna in the India squad. Also Read: Kane Williamson asserts 'anything can happen' when New Zealand play 'their best cricket' The squad for the T20I series against Australia is expected to be announced on November 15 - the day India take on New Zealand in the ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final. The selectors, led by former India bowling all-rounder Ajit Agarkar are also expected to rest key players who are part of the World Cup squad in lieu of workload management. With most of India's World Cup 2023 squad expected to be rested, fringe players like Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Jitesh Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and others - who played in Asian Games 2023 and won a gold, may get a chance to play. The series starts on November 23 in Visakhapatnam and ends on December 3 in Bengaluru. The other three matches will be played on November 26, November 28 and December 1 in Thiruvananthapuram, Guwahati and Nagpur, respectively. Apart from the players, head coach Rahul Dravid is also expected to be rested for the series, reported ESPNCricinfo. In his place, NCA director VVS Laxman may take on the reins. Notably, Dravid's two-year contract is also ending after the World Cup but there are no updates on his extension or replacement as of now.

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya out of T20Is vs Australia after ankle injury - Report

<p>Matthew Wade will be captaining the Australian side in five T20Is against India after the ODI World Cup 2023. The wicketkeeper-batter who isn't part of Australia's squad for the ongoing quadrennial event, will be in charge of the side on an interim basis. Australia will be playing five T20Is starting November 23 in India after the ODI World Cup concludes on November 19.</p>

<p>Australia currently do not have a permanent T20I skipper since Aaron Finch retired in February earlier this year. They had appointed Mitch Marsh as skipper in their last series before the ODI World Cup. Speaking on his appointment as skipper, Australia chief selector George Bailey said that Wade is leader in the group and it is an opportunity to further deepen Australia's captaining options.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/knee-has-csk-skipper-ms-dhoni-provides-update-on-ipl-2024-participation-652191">CSK skipper MS Dhoni provides update on IPL 2024 participation</a></p>

<p>"Matthew has captained the team previously, is a leader in the group and we look forward to him taking the reins for this series," said Bailey&nbsp; in a press release by Cricket Australia. "Like Mitch Marsh in the South Africa series, this is another great opportunity to further deepen our international leadership experience and depth."</p>

<p>Australia will be without their frontline bowlers in the T20I series against India namely Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood&nbsp;and the onus will be on next generation of fast bowlers such as Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott and Jason Behrendorff.</p>

<p>The series will begin on November 23 in Vishakhapatnam before moving further south to Thiruvananthapuram for the second T20I on November 26. The teams will then travel to North East in Guwahati for the third T20I on November 28 and will come to central India for the fourth match on December 1 in Nagpur. The final match of the series will be played in Hyderabad on December 3.</p>

<p><strong>Australia squad for T20I series against India:</strong> Matthew Wade (c), Jason Behrendorff, Sean Abbott, Tim David, Nathan Ellis Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa</p>

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Matthew Wade will be captaining the Australian side in five T20Is against India after the ODI World Cup 2023. The wicketkeeper-batter who isn't part of Australia's squad for the ongoing quadrennial event, will be in charge of the side on an interim basis.

Matthew Wade will be captaining the Australian side in five T20Is against India after the ODI World Cup 2023. The wicketkeeper-batter who isn't part of Australia's squad for the ongoing quadrennial event, will be in charge of the side on an interim basis. Australia will be playing five T20Is starting November 23 in India after the ODI World Cup concludes on November 19. Australia currently do not have a permanent T20I skipper since Aaron Finch retired in February earlier this year. They had appointed Mitch Marsh as skipper in their last series before the ODI World Cup. Speaking on his appointment as skipper, Australia chief selector George Bailey said that Wade is leader in the group and it is an opportunity to further deepen Australia's captaining options. Also Read: CSK skipper MS Dhoni provides update on IPL 2024 participation "Matthew has captained the team previously, is a leader in the group and we look forward to him taking the reins for this series," said Bailey in a press release by Cricket Australia. "Like Mitch Marsh in the South Africa series, this is another great opportunity to further deepen our international leadership experience and depth." Australia will be without their frontline bowlers in the T20I series against India namely Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood and the onus will be on next generation of fast bowlers such as Nathan Ellis, Spencer Johnson, Sean Abbott and Jason Behrendorff. The series will begin on November 23 in Vishakhapatnam before moving further south to Thiruvananthapuram for the second T20I on November 26. The teams will then travel to North East in Guwahati for the third T20I on November 28 and will come to central India for the fourth match on December 1 in Nagpur. The final match of the series will be played in Hyderabad on December 3. Australia squad for T20I series against India: Matthew Wade (c), Jason Behrendorff, Sean Abbott, Tim David, Nathan Ellis Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Tanveer Sangha, Matt Short, Steve Smith, Marcus Stoinis, David Warner, Adam Zampa WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Matthew Wade named Australia captain for five-T20I series against India after ongoing ODI World Cup

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Well, it is true. They have been very unusual. Very unusual performance by them. It looks like they are lagging in confidence. More than a couple of players are out of form. They need to get back to doing the basics and enjoy their game. It seems they are overthinking at this point.</p>

<p>Well, he has got other people to help him. One of his best mates is Steve Smith. There is David Warner as well. He has got a lot of support. It is just that collectively they need to do some old-fashioned hard work when it comes it comes to the competition.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-cwc-23-there-is-no-doubt-about-it-ramiz-raja-on-which-team-starts-as-favourites-646341">India vs Pakistan, CWC '23: 'There is no doubt about it' - Ramiz Raja on which team starts as FAVOURITES</a></strong></p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, Cummins said, "Don’t think much needs to be said tonight, everyone’s hurting, we’ll try and take a couple of days off and then make amends to come back stronger in the next one. There’s a few things we need to tidy up."</p>

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Well, it is true. They have been very unusual. Very unusual performance by them. It looks like they are lagging in confidence. More than a couple of players are out of form.

Well, it is true. They have been very unusual. Very unusual performance by them. It looks like they are lagging in confidence. More than a couple of players are out of form. They need to get back to doing the basics and enjoy their game. It seems they are overthinking at this point. Well, he has got other people to help him. One of his best mates is Steve Smith. There is David Warner as well. He has got a lot of support. It is just that collectively they need to do some old-fashioned hard work when it comes it comes to the competition. Also read: India vs Pakistan, CWC '23: 'There is no doubt about it' - Ramiz Raja on which team starts as FAVOURITES At the post-match presentation, Cummins said, "Don’t think much needs to be said tonight, everyone’s hurting, we’ll try and take a couple of days off and then make amends to come back stronger in the next one. There’s a few things we need to tidy up." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Dav Whatmore slams Australia's 'unusual'  CWC '23 performance, feels 'they are lagging in confidence'

<p>India and Australia faced each other in their respective CWC 2023 openers in match 5 on Sunday (Oct&nbsp;8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. rode on Ravindra Jadeja's 3 for 28, Kuldeep Yadav's 2 for 42 and Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 35 to dismiss the Aussies for 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, India were 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) took India home with six wickets and 52 balls to spare.</p>

<p>After the clash, Kohli and Rahul -- who stitched a match-winning 165-run third-wicket stand -- got together for a candid chat. The video was shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official handle on X, formerly Twitter, with the caption, "They both got #TeamIndia the first win of #CWC23".</p>

<p>As the bandwagon moves to Delhi, here's @imVkohli &amp; @klrahul dissecting their match-winning partnership against Australia.</p>

<p>P.S. The local lad is bracing himself for his homecoming"</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">They both got <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> the first win of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> 💪<br />
<br />
As the bandwagon moves to Delhi, here's <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/klrahul?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@klrahul</a> dissecting their match-winning partnership against Australia 👌<br />
<br />
P.S. The local lad is bracing himself for his homecoming 🏟️<br />
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Watch the full interview 🎥 👇… <a href="https://t.co/HSXYovY43T">pic.twitter.com/HSXYovY43T</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1711399572667347079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>KOHLI AND RAHUL'S CANDID CHAT</strong></h2>

<p>In their conversation, Kohli recalled the stunning 233-run third-wicket stand with Rahul in India's Super Four clash versus Pakistan in the Asia Cup but rated their recent stand 'bit more special.'</p>

<p>Kohli started by saying, "Talking about the special partnership that I and KL had, we had one in the Asia Cup as well but this was a bit more special." He then asked Rahul, "How does it feel, how is the body feeling firstly."</p>

<p>Rahul replied, "Tired. I won't lie, you know how it was the only chat after I think 50 or 70 runs of the partnership was let's conserve energy. Let's not run the twos but once you hit it in the gap then I guess instincts take over and we end up running. It was a tough day but it could get our World Cup journey started with a good victory."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-huge-blow-for-india-shubman-gill-hospitalised-in-chennai-unlikely-to-play-vs-pakistan-644769">World Cup 2023: Huge blow for India! Shubman Gill hospitalised in Chennai, unlikely to play vs Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'It doesn't all happen in 1.5 overs or 2 overs time'</strong></h2>

<p>Kohli recalled India's top-order failure in Chennai and said, "I know the situation was not ideal when you came in, you were all over the place you were still padding up while walking in. The first thing I told you was that it was a quick turnaround. It was quite bizarre to be honest the start was quite bizarre." He then asked his partner, "What was your feeling when you were walking in?"</p>

<p>Rahul was quick to respond, "I never expected it, you do lose a couple of quick wickets sometimes when the ball is doing something but not like that it still takes 4-5 overs. It doesn't all happen in 1.5 overs or 2 overs time. I just came and sat, I just had a shower, the minute I sat down Ishan got out. I had to rush back to get taped and started wearing my pad."</p>

<p>In India's heartbreaking CWC '19 semi-final loss versus New Zealand, chasing 240, the then Kohli-led Indian team were 5 for 3 and struggled to get past the finish line,&nbsp;losing by 18 runs. In their very next outing in the World Cup, i.e. their opener in the 2023 edition, the Men in Blue once again struggled early on&nbsp;but had Kohli-Rahul who bailed them out of the crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India will now face Afghanistan in their second game, i.e. match 9 of the CWC 2023 edition on Wednesday (Oct&nbsp;11) in New Delhi, India. Rohit &amp; Co. will be eager to put up a better show at the top and aim for two wins in a row.&nbsp;</p>

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India and Australia faced each other in their respective CWC 2023 openers in match 5 on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India and Australia faced each other in their respective CWC 2023 openers in match 5 on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, Rohit Sharma & Co. rode on Ravindra Jadeja's 3 for 28, Kuldeep Yadav's 2 for 42 and Jasprit Bumrah's 2 for 35 to dismiss the Aussies for 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, India were 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) took India home with six wickets and 52 balls to spare. After the clash, Kohli and Rahul -- who stitched a match-winning 165-run third-wicket stand -- got together for a candid chat. The video was shared on the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) official handle on X, formerly Twitter, with the caption, "They both got #TeamIndia the first win of #CWC23". As the bandwagon moves to Delhi, here's @imVkohli & @klrahul dissecting their match-winning partnership against Australia. P.S. The local lad is bracing himself for his homecoming" They both got #TeamIndia the first win of #CWC23 💪 As the bandwagon moves to Delhi, here's @imVkohli & @klrahul dissecting their match-winning partnership against Australia 👌 P.S. The local lad is bracing himself for his homecoming 🏟️ Watch the full interview 🎥 👇… pic.twitter.com/HSXYovY43T — BCCI (@BCCI) October 9, 2023 × KOHLI AND RAHUL'S CANDID CHAT In their conversation, Kohli recalled the stunning 233-run third-wicket stand with Rahul in India's Super Four clash versus Pakistan in the Asia Cup but rated their recent stand 'bit more special.' Kohli started by saying, "Talking about the special partnership that I and KL had, we had one in the Asia Cup as well but this was a bit more special." He then asked Rahul, "How does it feel, how is the body feeling firstly." Rahul replied, "Tired. I won't lie, you know how it was the only chat after I think 50 or 70 runs of the partnership was let's conserve energy. Let's not run the twos but once you hit it in the gap then I guess instincts take over and we end up running. It was a tough day but it could get our World Cup journey started with a good victory." Also read: World Cup 2023: Huge blow for India! Shubman Gill hospitalised in Chennai, unlikely to play vs Pakistan 'It doesn't all happen in 1.5 overs or 2 overs time' Kohli recalled India's top-order failure in Chennai and said, "I know the situation was not ideal when you came in, you were all over the place you were still padding up while walking in. The first thing I told you was that it was a quick turnaround. It was quite bizarre to be honest the start was quite bizarre." He then asked his partner, "What was your feeling when you were walking in?" Rahul was quick to respond, "I never expected it, you do lose a couple of quick wickets sometimes when the ball is doing something but not like that it still takes 4-5 overs. It doesn't all happen in 1.5 overs or 2 overs time. I just came and sat, I just had a shower, the minute I sat down Ishan got out. I had to rush back to get taped and started wearing my pad." In India's heartbreaking CWC '19 semi-final loss versus New Zealand, chasing 240, the then Kohli-led Indian team were 5 for 3 and struggled to get past the finish line, losing by 18 runs. In their very next outing in the World Cup, i.e. their opener in the 2023 edition, the Men in Blue once again struggled early on but had Kohli-Rahul who bailed them out of the crisis. India will now face Afghanistan in their second game, i.e. match 9 of the CWC 2023 edition on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi, India. Rohit & Co. will be eager to put up a better show at the top and aim for two wins in a row. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023 - 'Never expected that': Rahul recalls India's early collapse vs Australia in chat with Kohli - Watch

<p>India batsman KL Rahul missed out on a century as he hit a shot too well vs Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup match on October 8. Rahul was batting on 91 when India needed five runs to win. The batter hit a lofted extra cover drive a bit too nicely in the air and the ball sailed over the boundary for a six, handing India a six-wicket win.</p>

<p>After the shot, which came in the 42nd over off Pat Cummins, Rahul went down on his haunches, realising what he had done, albeit with a smile as India won the game. Have a look at the shot here:</p>

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<p>At the post-match presentation, Rahul acknowledged that he was looking to hit a four and a six to reach his century but he hit the shot better than he expected.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2023-kl-rahul-reveals-advice-given-by-virat-kohli-after-coming-in-to-bat-against-australia-644214">KL Rahul reveals advice given by Virat Kohli after coming in to bat against Australia</a></p>

<p>"I hit it too well. I wanted to get a hundred by going four and six. Hopefully, some other time I can get it," said the batter who was given Player of the Match for his 97 not out.</p>

<p>India had an early scare in the game when they lost three wickets for mere two runs while chasing 200. Virat Kohli (85) and Rahul then added 165 runs for the fourth wicket to take the game away from the Aussies.</p>

<p>Speaking about the situation, Rahul said: "There was a bit of help for the fast bowlers early on. Towards the end, the dew played a bit of a part for them. It was still two-paced. It wasn't a great wicket to bat on, neither was it too difficult. I think it was a good cricket wicket, that's what you get in South of India especially in Chennai."</p>

<p>With the win, India got a much-needed two points to start their 2023 World Cup campaign with a win. They next play Afghanistan on October 11 in New Delhi before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad.</p>

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India batsman KL Rahul missed out on a century as he hit a shot too well vs Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup match on October 8. Rahul was batting on 91 when India needed five runs to win.

India batsman KL Rahul missed out on a century as he hit a shot too well vs Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup match on October 8. Rahul was batting on 91 when India needed five runs to win. The batter hit a lofted extra cover drive a bit too nicely in the air and the ball sailed over the boundary for a six, handing India a six-wicket win. After the shot, which came in the 42nd over off Pat Cummins, Rahul went down on his haunches, realising what he had done, albeit with a smile as India won the game. Have a look at the shot here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × At the post-match presentation, Rahul acknowledged that he was looking to hit a four and a six to reach his century but he hit the shot better than he expected. Also Read: KL Rahul reveals advice given by Virat Kohli after coming in to bat against Australia "I hit it too well. I wanted to get a hundred by going four and six. Hopefully, some other time I can get it," said the batter who was given Player of the Match for his 97 not out. India had an early scare in the game when they lost three wickets for mere two runs while chasing 200. Virat Kohli (85) and Rahul then added 165 runs for the fourth wicket to take the game away from the Aussies. Speaking about the situation, Rahul said: "There was a bit of help for the fast bowlers early on. Towards the end, the dew played a bit of a part for them. It was still two-paced. It wasn't a great wicket to bat on, neither was it too difficult. I think it was a good cricket wicket, that's what you get in South of India especially in Chennai." With the win, India got a much-needed two points to start their 2023 World Cup campaign with a win. They next play Afghanistan on October 11 in New Delhi before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad.

ODI World Cup 2023: KL Rahul hits a shot TOO WELL for a six vs Australia and misses out on scoring 100

<p>Battling initial hiccups and some tricky phases, India kickstarted their World Cup campaign against Australia with a six-wicket win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (October 8) evening. While bowlers were the architects of the win, it was the pair of&nbsp;KL Rahul (97*) and Virat Kohli (85) that took India to the victory shores when the second innings performance looked like a repeat of the 2019 WC semifinal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India were in a spot of bother as both openers Rohit Sharma&nbsp;and Ishan Kishan&nbsp;as well as designated No. 4 Shreyas Iyer departed within the first two overs, with only two runs on board. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood made merry with the new swinging ball as Indian batters rushed through and paid the ultimate price for it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the ship tottering, Kohli and Rahul stepped up and started rotating the strike to develop a partnership. Kohli had a lucky reprieve when he was on 12 as Mitchell Marsh could not hold onto a tough chance while running in from short mid-on. In hindsight, it might have been the turning point of the match.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the first powerplay, India only managed 27 runs but kicked on from there. Cameron Green introduced in the 15th over was picked apart for consecutive boundaries before KL Rahul took the initiative and smashed Adam Zampa for three boundaries in his first over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From thereon, both batters played near chanceless innings, as the Aussie bowlers toiled hard but to no avail. Rahul and Kohli reached their respective&nbsp;half-centuries and kept up with the required run rate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kohli, however, would have been disappointed as he could not see the game through after&nbsp;departing&nbsp;for 85 whilst attempting a pull straight to Labuschagne at short midwicket.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-davs-top-five-bowlers-at-the-world-cup-643020"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: DAV's top five bowlers at the World Cup</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Australia's sorry batting performance</strong></h2>

<p>Opting to bat first, Australia had a wretched start to the proceedings as Marsh departed for nought. Jasprit Bumrah levelled the scales&nbsp;after being taken for plenty by the all-rounder in the ODI series last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, Warner and Smith stitched a partnership and handled things sensibly with the latter looking set for another big one against India - his favourite opposition.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-powered-by-spin-trio-india-bundle-up-aussies-at-199-644139"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Cricket World Cup: Powered by spin trio, India bundle out Aussies for 199</strong></a></p>

<p>However, Kuldeep Yadav 2.0 with his slightly remodelled action, picked Warner's wicket and brought the much-needed breakthrough for India. This was the window that Indian spinners needed and the troika of Jadeja, Ashwin and Kuldeep didn't let things slide from there.</p>

<p>Jadeja bowled a beauty to get Smith and the wheels came off for Australia after that. From 110/2, the five-time World champions slipped to 140/7. Things were looking bleak for the Aussies at that stage with over 13 overs still left, but the lower-order hung around to push the score to a below-par 199.</p>

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Battling initial hiccups and some tricky phases, India kickstarted their World Cup campaign against Australia with a six-wicket win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (October 8) evening.

Battling initial hiccups and some tricky phases, India kickstarted their World Cup campaign against Australia with a six-wicket win at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday (October 8) evening. While bowlers were the architects of the win, it was the pair of KL Rahul (97*) and Virat Kohli (85) that took India to the victory shores when the second innings performance looked like a repeat of the 2019 WC semifinal. India were in a spot of bother as both openers Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan as well as designated No. 4 Shreyas Iyer departed within the first two overs, with only two runs on board. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood made merry with the new swinging ball as Indian batters rushed through and paid the ultimate price for it. With the ship tottering, Kohli and Rahul stepped up and started rotating the strike to develop a partnership. Kohli had a lucky reprieve when he was on 12 as Mitchell Marsh could not hold onto a tough chance while running in from short mid-on. In hindsight, it might have been the turning point of the match. In the first powerplay, India only managed 27 runs but kicked on from there. Cameron Green introduced in the 15th over was picked apart for consecutive boundaries before KL Rahul took the initiative and smashed Adam Zampa for three boundaries in his first over. From thereon, both batters played near chanceless innings, as the Aussie bowlers toiled hard but to no avail. Rahul and Kohli reached their respective half-centuries and kept up with the required run rate. Kohli, however, would have been disappointed as he could not see the game through after departing for 85 whilst attempting a pull straight to Labuschagne at short midwicket. Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: DAV's top five bowlers at the World Cup × Australia's sorry batting performance Opting to bat first, Australia had a wretched start to the proceedings as Marsh departed for nought. Jasprit Bumrah levelled the scales after being taken for plenty by the all-rounder in the ODI series last month. Afterwards, Warner and Smith stitched a partnership and handled things sensibly with the latter looking set for another big one against India - his favourite opposition. Also read | Cricket World Cup: Powered by spin trio, India bundle out Aussies for 199 However, Kuldeep Yadav 2.0 with his slightly remodelled action, picked Warner's wicket and brought the much-needed breakthrough for India. This was the window that Indian spinners needed and the troika of Jadeja, Ashwin and Kuldeep didn't let things slide from there. Jadeja bowled a beauty to get Smith and the wheels came off for Australia after that. From 110/2, the five-time World champions slipped to 140/7. Things were looking bleak for the Aussies at that stage with over 13 overs still left, but the lower-order hung around to push the score to a below-par 199. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: India brave initial blues to stave off Australia challenge, win by 6 wickets

<p>India captain Rohit Sharma reflected on his team’s performance in the ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) after his side won by six wickets. Despite the win, India needed to weather the early storm from the Aussie pace attack as the hosts were reduced to 2/3. However, heroics from KL Rahul and Virat Kohli saw the Indian team home, having stitched a 165-run stand for the third wicket.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India overcome an early wobble to take their opening <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC23</a> by a comfortable margin 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> 📝: <a href="https://t.co/Qh7kBjviYJ">https://t.co/Qh7kBjviYJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/pbTH3UMLkf">pic.twitter.com/pbTH3UMLkf</a></p>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1711055528154050588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Rohit on India’s win</strong></h2>

<p>“I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussie's bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase.</p>

<p>“That is going to be the challenge for us as a team, moving to different conditions and adapting, whoever suits the conditions will have to come and do the job. Chennai never disappoints, they love their cricket, and for them to sit in that heat and come out and cheer for the team says a lot,” Rohit said in the post-match interview.</p>

<p>Tasked to chase 200, the pair of Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc crushed India to 2/3, revisiting memories from the 2019 World Cup semifinal loss to New Zealand. Like today, India were reduced to 5/3 at that time which paved the way for their World Cup exit. Ishan Kishan, Rohit, and Shreyas Iyer were dismissed for ducks in the first powerplay before Rahul and Virat came to India’s rescue.</p>

<p>The pair were no-nonsense with their approach as Virat scored 85 runs while Rahul remained unbeaten on 97. Their partnership led the foundation for India’s win in Chennai while Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten on 11.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-ravi-ashwin-picked-gill-miss-out-as-australia-bat-first-against-india-in-chennai-643969">ODI World Cup 2023: Ravi Ashwin picked, Gill miss out as Australia bat first against India in Chennai</a></p>

<h2><strong>What happened in Australia’s innings?</strong></h2>

<p>Spinners headlined India’s ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8). The Men in Blue restricted Australia to 199 runs in their innings. India, playing with three spinners in their first match of the World Cup, saw the decision justified as the trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav scalped wickets in tandem.</p>

<p>Playing three spinners, it was Jasprit Bumrah who started India’s trade of wickets when he got the better of Mitchell Marsh for a duck on the second ball of the third over. David Warner (41) and Steve Smith (46) then stitched a 69-run stand for the second wicket before Kuldeep sent the former back to the pavilion. Smith and Labuschagne (27) then tried to bring the Aussies back on track before Ravindra Jadeja&nbsp;showed his class.</p>

<p>With Australia 140/7, the tail-enders showed good resilience to steer their side to 199 with India now needing to push with their batting line-up. For India, Jadeja ended with three wickets while Bumrah and Kuldeep scalped two each. There were wickets each for Ashwin, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj.</p>

<p>India will next take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 13) in Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium while Australia will take on South Africa on Thursday in Lucknow.</p>

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India captain Rohit Sharma reflected on his team’s performance in the ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) after his side won by six wickets.

India captain Rohit Sharma reflected on his team’s performance in the ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8) after his side won by six wickets. Despite the win, India needed to weather the early storm from the Aussie pace attack as the hosts were reduced to 2/3. However, heroics from KL Rahul and Virat Kohli saw the Indian team home, having stitched a 165-run stand for the third wicket. India overcome an early wobble to take their opening #CWC23 by a comfortable margin 💪#INDvAUS 📝: https://t.co/Qh7kBjviYJ pic.twitter.com/pbTH3UMLkf — ICC (@ICC) October 8, 2023 × Rohit on India’s win “I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussie's bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase. “That is going to be the challenge for us as a team, moving to different conditions and adapting, whoever suits the conditions will have to come and do the job. Chennai never disappoints, they love their cricket, and for them to sit in that heat and come out and cheer for the team says a lot,” Rohit said in the post-match interview. Tasked to chase 200, the pair of Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc crushed India to 2/3, revisiting memories from the 2019 World Cup semifinal loss to New Zealand. Like today, India were reduced to 5/3 at that time which paved the way for their World Cup exit. Ishan Kishan, Rohit, and Shreyas Iyer were dismissed for ducks in the first powerplay before Rahul and Virat came to India’s rescue. The pair were no-nonsense with their approach as Virat scored 85 runs while Rahul remained unbeaten on 97. Their partnership led the foundation for India’s win in Chennai while Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten on 11. ALSO READ | ODI World Cup 2023: Ravi Ashwin picked, Gill miss out as Australia bat first against India in Chennai What happened in Australia’s innings? Spinners headlined India’s ODI World Cup opener against Australia on Sunday (Oct 8). The Men in Blue restricted Australia to 199 runs in their innings. India, playing with three spinners in their first match of the World Cup, saw the decision justified as the trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav scalped wickets in tandem. Playing three spinners, it was Jasprit Bumrah who started India’s trade of wickets when he got the better of Mitchell Marsh for a duck on the second ball of the third over. David Warner (41) and Steve Smith (46) then stitched a 69-run stand for the second wicket before Kuldeep sent the former back to the pavilion. Smith and Labuschagne (27) then tried to bring the Aussies back on track before Ravindra Jadeja showed his class. With Australia 140/7, the tail-enders showed good resilience to steer their side to 199 with India now needing to push with their batting line-up. For India, Jadeja ended with three wickets while Bumrah and Kuldeep scalped two each. There were wickets each for Ashwin, Hardik Pandya, and Mohammed Siraj. India will next take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (Oct 13) in Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium while Australia will take on South Africa on Thursday in Lucknow. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma reflects on India's poor start despite Kohli, Rahul heroics, 'I was nervous'

<p>Ravindra Jadeja-starrer India thrashed Australia by six wickets in both teams' CWC 2023 opener on Sunday (Oct&nbsp;8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Jadeja's 3 for 28 and two wickets each from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav as the Pat Cummins-led Aussies only managed 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India were 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) propelled the Men in Blue to an easy six-wicket win as the home side are off the mark in the showpiece event.</p>

<p>In a recent interaction with Dinesh Karthik and host Brian Murgatroyd -- for the latest episode of The ICC Review podcast -- Jadeja is hopeful that India will win the mega event in front of the devoted home fans and lauded them as they always turn up to cheer the side in large numbers.</p>

<p>On the World Cup being held in India, the 34-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder said, "It is very special because this is my first World Cup in India. The fans are very excited because our team is balanced in all areas. There is nothing that we are weak in any particular area."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-looks-like-a-much-better-version-of-himself-says-irfan-pathan-after-india-beat-australia-in-cwc-2023-644548">KL Rahul looks like a much better version of himself, says Irfan Pathan after India beat Australia in CWC 2023</a></strong></p>

<p>Lauding the home fans, Jadeja pointed out, "The energy of Indian fans, their confidence, and their unwavering faith in us are incredibly high. Whenever we play in India, for any series, they turn out in such large numbers that the entire stadium remains packed. I find it very exciting to play in the World Cup in front of the Indian crowd. Hopefully, we'll perform well, reach the finals, and win the World Cup."</p>

<p>Talking about India's first game in the CWC 2023 edition, over 30,000 people turned up at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to watch Rohit &amp; Co. take on the Aussies. Over a majority of fans were Indians as they relentlessly supported India, who beat the five-time winners in style to open their World Cup campaign on a high.</p>

<p>India will now face Afghanistan in their second outing of the tournament on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, the home fans will turn up once again to full up the stadium and back Rohit-led India.&nbsp;</p>

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Ravindra Jadeja-starrer India thrashed Australia by six wickets in both teams' CWC 2023 opener on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Jadeja's 3 for 28 and two wickets each from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav as the Pat Cummins-led Aussies only managed 199 in 49.

Ravindra Jadeja-starrer India thrashed Australia by six wickets in both teams' CWC 2023 opener on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first, India rode on Jadeja's 3 for 28 and two wickets each from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav as the Pat Cummins-led Aussies only managed 199 in 49.3 overs. In reply, Rohit Sharma-led India were 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) propelled the Men in Blue to an easy six-wicket win as the home side are off the mark in the showpiece event. In a recent interaction with Dinesh Karthik and host Brian Murgatroyd -- for the latest episode of The ICC Review podcast -- Jadeja is hopeful that India will win the mega event in front of the devoted home fans and lauded them as they always turn up to cheer the side in large numbers. On the World Cup being held in India, the 34-year-old spin-bowling all-rounder said, "It is very special because this is my first World Cup in India. The fans are very excited because our team is balanced in all areas. There is nothing that we are weak in any particular area." Also read: KL Rahul looks like a much better version of himself, says Irfan Pathan after India beat Australia in CWC 2023 Lauding the home fans, Jadeja pointed out, "The energy of Indian fans, their confidence, and their unwavering faith in us are incredibly high. Whenever we play in India, for any series, they turn out in such large numbers that the entire stadium remains packed. I find it very exciting to play in the World Cup in front of the Indian crowd. Hopefully, we'll perform well, reach the finals, and win the World Cup." Talking about India's first game in the CWC 2023 edition, over 30,000 people turned up at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai to watch Rohit & Co. take on the Aussies. Over a majority of fans were Indians as they relentlessly supported India, who beat the five-time winners in style to open their World Cup campaign on a high. India will now face Afghanistan in their second outing of the tournament on Wednesday (Oct 11) in New Delhi, India. Needless to say, the home fans will turn up once again to full up the stadium and back Rohit-led India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Their unwavering faith in us...': Ravindra Jadeja lauds Indian fans, hopeful to win CWC 2023 at home

<p>When Indian opening batter Ishan Kishan departed in the first over without scoring, the Chepauk crowd erupted for Virat Kohli, who was walking in to bat at one-down. However, this Kohli-driven joy was very short-lived as the Aussie pace attack led by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood claimed the wickets of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer&nbsp;in quick succession. Just like Kishan, they too went for a duck. At the end of three overs, team India were limping at 5-3 (a scoreboard that appeared more like one from a football match). However, meticulous stroke play during a 165-run partnership (off 215 balls) by the Kohli-Rahul duo stood tall and snatched the game from the Aussies.</p>

<p>As is often the case in big international tournaments, Kohli was seen fighting to keep India's hopes alive, while his fellow top-order batters left him deserted in a high-pressure situation. The Kohli-Rahul partnership didn't just offer solace and finesse, the stunning performance of this duo was also a face-saver for the Indian top order that fell like skittles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Luck also played a major part in ensuring Kohli's long and fulfilling innings as he was dropped at 12 by Mitchell Marsh when he was just starting to settle in. This explains the luck that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had hoped for, during his pre-match presser. Except for a couple of risky shots, Kohli displayed the supreme and clinical stroke play that he is world-renowned for. KL Rahul played an innings that was similarly paced to that of Kohli's, thereby complementing the careful construction of an Indian fightback. Kohli fell to a Josh Hazlewood delivery when he was 15 runs short of a ton.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While 200 did not seem like a very challenging total for the hosts, the top-order failure made even survival look herculean. While the Aussie top order kept the score going, it was a middle and tail failure that caused them trouble. In stark contrast, India's top order failed, whereas one-down Kohli and three-down Rahul compensated, in a classy and memorable manner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The partnership of David Warner (41 runs) and Steve Smith (46 runs) helped the visitors notch up their score beyond 100, by the time they had batted halfway through the innings. Having lost only two wickets till the halfway mark of their innings, Australia lost all remaining wickets in the latter half. In India's case, after the debacle in the first three overs, it was a Kohli-Rahul show that entirely absorbed the pressure and carried the chase and Indian fans' expectations on their shoulders till the near end. Notably, until the first 25 overs, the scoring rate of the Indian side remained quite similar to that of the Aussies. However, the well-settled Indian batters accelerated their chase in the second half of their innings.</p>

<p>As India bowled, the spin trio - Ravindra Jadeja (3 wickets), Kuldeep Yadav (2 wickets) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2wickets) proved lethal and scalped a total of seven wickets. The rest were taken care of by pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who claimed one wicket each, thereby bowling out Australia in the final over. The admirable pace bowling spell of Siraj also restricted the visitors' scoring rate. For the visitors, it was the pace attack led by Josh Hazlewood (3 wickets) and Mitchell Starc (1 wicket), who did the damage and the spin bowling failed to scalp any.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Kohli departed, India needed 33 runs to win. This was ably handled by a few big hits from Hardik Pandya (11*) and KL Rahul (97*). India sealed a stellar win with six wickets in hand. The sign-off sixer was by KL Rahul, who ended up three short of a well-deserved century. With this, India have won the 150th India-Australia ODI and have had a positive start to the ICC World Cup that is being hosted at home. With a little over 75 per cent occupancy, the fans at the Chepauk stadium got their money's worth. However, what remains unexplained is how almost 8500 seats went unoccupied for this Sunday's super clash, which is also the maiden match for both India and Australia, in this World Cup.</p>

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When Indian opening batter Ishan Kishan departed in the first over without scoring, the Chepauk crowd erupted for Virat Kohli, who was walking in to bat at one-down.

When Indian opening batter Ishan Kishan departed in the first over without scoring, the Chepauk crowd erupted for Virat Kohli, who was walking in to bat at one-down. However, this Kohli-driven joy was very short-lived as the Aussie pace attack led by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood claimed the wickets of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer in quick succession. Just like Kishan, they too went for a duck. At the end of three overs, team India were limping at 5-3 (a scoreboard that appeared more like one from a football match). However, meticulous stroke play during a 165-run partnership (off 215 balls) by the Kohli-Rahul duo stood tall and snatched the game from the Aussies. As is often the case in big international tournaments, Kohli was seen fighting to keep India's hopes alive, while his fellow top-order batters left him deserted in a high-pressure situation. The Kohli-Rahul partnership didn't just offer solace and finesse, the stunning performance of this duo was also a face-saver for the Indian top order that fell like skittles. Luck also played a major part in ensuring Kohli's long and fulfilling innings as he was dropped at 12 by Mitchell Marsh when he was just starting to settle in. This explains the luck that Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had hoped for, during his pre-match presser. Except for a couple of risky shots, Kohli displayed the supreme and clinical stroke play that he is world-renowned for. KL Rahul played an innings that was similarly paced to that of Kohli's, thereby complementing the careful construction of an Indian fightback. Kohli fell to a Josh Hazlewood delivery when he was 15 runs short of a ton. While 200 did not seem like a very challenging total for the hosts, the top-order failure made even survival look herculean. While the Aussie top order kept the score going, it was a middle and tail failure that caused them trouble. In stark contrast, India's top order failed, whereas one-down Kohli and three-down Rahul compensated, in a classy and memorable manner. The partnership of David Warner (41 runs) and Steve Smith (46 runs) helped the visitors notch up their score beyond 100, by the time they had batted halfway through the innings. Having lost only two wickets till the halfway mark of their innings, Australia lost all remaining wickets in the latter half. In India's case, after the debacle in the first three overs, it was a Kohli-Rahul show that entirely absorbed the pressure and carried the chase and Indian fans' expectations on their shoulders till the near end. Notably, until the first 25 overs, the scoring rate of the Indian side remained quite similar to that of the Aussies. However, the well-settled Indian batters accelerated their chase in the second half of their innings. As India bowled, the spin trio - Ravindra Jadeja (3 wickets), Kuldeep Yadav (2 wickets) and Ravichandran Ashwin (2wickets) proved lethal and scalped a total of seven wickets. The rest were taken care of by pacers Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who claimed one wicket each, thereby bowling out Australia in the final over. The admirable pace bowling spell of Siraj also restricted the visitors' scoring rate. For the visitors, it was the pace attack led by Josh Hazlewood (3 wickets) and Mitchell Starc (1 wicket), who did the damage and the spin bowling failed to scalp any. After Kohli departed, India needed 33 runs to win. This was ably handled by a few big hits from Hardik Pandya (11*) and KL Rahul (97*). India sealed a stellar win with six wickets in hand. The sign-off sixer was by KL Rahul, who ended up three short of a well-deserved century. With this, India have won the 150th India-Australia ODI and have had a positive start to the ICC World Cup that is being hosted at home. With a little over 75 per cent occupancy, the fans at the Chepauk stadium got their money's worth. However, what remains unexplained is how almost 8500 seats went unoccupied for this Sunday's super clash, which is also the maiden match for both India and Australia, in this World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

World Cup 2023: Kohli-Rahul ace herculean chase, compensating for top-order failure

<p>India faced Australia in match 5 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. It was both the teams' opening games where Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. won by six wickets, with 52 balls to spare, to get off their campaign with a winning start. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins-led Australia only managed 199 in 49.3 overs as Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28) stood tall along with two wickets each from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav. In reply, India were in trouble and reeling at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) took India home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The duo got together with captain Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and No. 4 batter Shreyas Iyer returning to the pavillion without opening their accounts. While Kohli was dropped early in his innings, with Mitchell Marsh giving him a reprieve, Rahul and he didn't give the Aussies any further chance and stitched an impressive 165-run third-wicket stand. Eventually, Rahul and Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten to take India to a winning start. After the match, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar heaped praise on Rahul-Kohli and mentioned where Australia lost the plot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tendulkar wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I was surprised to see Australia bat first after winning the toss. Commendable performance by the Indian bowlers to restrict them to 199. Australia started well but I felt they missed a left-arm spinner on this surface. The partnership between Virat and Rahul sealed the game for us. They very smartly took their time and were able to execute some superb shots. The ball surely came onto the bat much better in the second half of the game. Congratulations to #TeamIndia on a good start."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-virat-kohli-wins-indias-best-fielder-of-the-match-star-batters-celebrations-goes-viral-watch-644438">CWC '23: Virat Kohli wins India's best fielder of the match, star batter's celebrations goes viral - Watch</a></strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I was surprised to see Australia bat first after winning the toss. Commendable performance by the Indian bowlers to restrict them to 199. Australia started well but I felt they missed a left-arm spinner on this surface. The partnership between Virat and Rahul sealed the game for… <a href="https://t.co/qUr21Vaqxb">pic.twitter.com/qUr21Vaqxb</a></p>
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<p>At the post-match presentation, winning captain Rohit said, "Pretty exciting. Good feeling to come out on top. It was a good game to start the tournament for us. I thought it was magnificent, especially the fielding and we saw the effort from everyone today, conditions like this it would be tough. Our bowlers used the conditions perfectly and we knew there would be assistance for everyone, even the seamers got some reverse, the spinners bowled in the nice areas and all in all it was a great effort. I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussies bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase."</p>

<p>India will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi, India.&nbsp;</p>

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India faced Australia in match 5 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. It was both the teams' opening games where Rohit Sharma & Co.

India faced Australia in match 5 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 on Sunday (Oct 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. It was both the teams' opening games where Rohit Sharma & Co. won by six wickets, with 52 balls to spare, to get off their campaign with a winning start. Opting to bat first, Pat Cummins-led Australia only managed 199 in 49.3 overs as Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28) stood tall along with two wickets each from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav. In reply, India were in trouble and reeling at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) took India home. The duo got together with captain Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan and No. 4 batter Shreyas Iyer returning to the pavillion without opening their accounts. While Kohli was dropped early in his innings, with Mitchell Marsh giving him a reprieve, Rahul and he didn't give the Aussies any further chance and stitched an impressive 165-run third-wicket stand. Eventually, Rahul and Hardik Pandya remained unbeaten to take India to a winning start. After the match, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar heaped praise on Rahul-Kohli and mentioned where Australia lost the plot. Tendulkar wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "I was surprised to see Australia bat first after winning the toss. Commendable performance by the Indian bowlers to restrict them to 199. Australia started well but I felt they missed a left-arm spinner on this surface. The partnership between Virat and Rahul sealed the game for us. They very smartly took their time and were able to execute some superb shots. The ball surely came onto the bat much better in the second half of the game. Congratulations to #TeamIndia on a good start." Also read: CWC '23: Virat Kohli wins India's best fielder of the match, star batter's celebrations goes viral - Watch I was surprised to see Australia bat first after winning the toss. Commendable performance by the Indian bowlers to restrict them to 199. Australia started well but I felt they missed a left-arm spinner on this surface. The partnership between Virat and Rahul sealed the game for… pic.twitter.com/qUr21Vaqxb — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) October 8, 2023 × At the post-match presentation, winning captain Rohit said, "Pretty exciting. Good feeling to come out on top. It was a good game to start the tournament for us. I thought it was magnificent, especially the fielding and we saw the effort from everyone today, conditions like this it would be tough. Our bowlers used the conditions perfectly and we knew there would be assistance for everyone, even the seamers got some reverse, the spinners bowled in the nice areas and all in all it was a great effort. I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussies bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase." India will now face Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi, India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Sachin Tendulkar heaps praise on Virat Kohli-KL Rahul, points out where Australia went wrong

ODI World Cup 2023: All records broken in India vs Australia Chennai face-off

<p>Team India opened their campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023 with a comfortable six-wicket win over Pat Cummins-led Australia in match 5 on Sunday (October 8) in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first&nbsp;at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja taking a three-fer whereas Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah returned with two wickets each. In reply, India were tottering at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli's 85 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 97* took India home with 52 balls to spare.</p>

<p>After the match, Kohli received the best fielder of the match award in the team presentation in the dressing room. Kohli was proactive as ever in the field and accounted for two catches, removing Mitchell Marsh and Adam Zampa. Thus, the&nbsp;fielding coach T Dilip handed over the medal and revealed, in a BCCI video shared on all social media platforms, that the team management had been trying for a while to arrange laurels for fielding efforts. In addition, Dilip lauded Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan for their overall fielding efforts.</p>

<p>Kohli was on cloud nine after receiving the best fielder of the match award and his celebrations have gone viral. <strong>Here's how the former captain reacted to the recognition -</strong></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-he-looks-to-be-in-different-league-akhtar-lauds-rahul-for-classy-97-in-indias-win-vs-australia-644378">CWC '23: 'He looks to be in different league' - Akhtar lauds Rahul for classy 97* in India's win vs Australia</a></strong></p>

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<p>Talking about India's fielding, everyone complemented the bowlers with some outstanding saves in the inner circle as well as in the deep. Thus, Australia could not even surpass the 200-run mark. With the bat, India struggled early on but a highly-impressive 165-run third-wicket stand between Kohli and Rahul took India past the finish line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit said, "Pretty exciting. Good feeling to come out on top. It was a good game to start the tournament for us. I thought it was magnificent, especially the fielding and we saw the effort from everyone today, conditions like this it would be tough. Our bowlers used the conditions perfectly and we knew there would be assistance for everyone, even the seamers got some reverse, the spinners bowled in the nice areas and all in all it was a great effort. I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussies bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase. That is going to be the challenge for us as a team, moving to different conditions and adapting, whoever suits the conditions will have to come and do the job. Chennai never disappoints, they love their cricket and for them to sit in that heat and come out and cheer for the team says a lot."</p>

<p>India will now face Afghanistan in their next game, on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

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Team India opened their campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023 with a comfortable six-wicket win over Pat Cummins-led Australia in match 5 on Sunday (October 8) in Chennai.

Team India opened their campaign in the ODI World Cup 2023 with a comfortable six-wicket win over Pat Cummins-led Australia in match 5 on Sunday (October 8) in Chennai. Being asked to bowl first at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rohit Sharma & Co. bundled out the Aussies for a paltry 199 in 49.3 overs with Ravindra Jadeja taking a three-fer whereas Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah returned with two wickets each. In reply, India were tottering at 2 for 3 before Virat Kohli's 85 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 97* took India home with 52 balls to spare. After the match, Kohli received the best fielder of the match award in the team presentation in the dressing room. Kohli was proactive as ever in the field and accounted for two catches, removing Mitchell Marsh and Adam Zampa. Thus, the fielding coach T Dilip handed over the medal and revealed, in a BCCI video shared on all social media platforms, that the team management had been trying for a while to arrange laurels for fielding efforts. In addition, Dilip lauded Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan for their overall fielding efforts. Kohli was on cloud nine after receiving the best fielder of the match award and his celebrations have gone viral. Here's how the former captain reacted to the recognition - Also read: CWC '23: 'He looks to be in different league' - Akhtar lauds Rahul for classy 97* in India's win vs Australia View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × Talking about India's fielding, everyone complemented the bowlers with some outstanding saves in the inner circle as well as in the deep. Thus, Australia could not even surpass the 200-run mark. With the bat, India struggled early on but a highly-impressive 165-run third-wicket stand between Kohli and Rahul took India past the finish line. At the post-match presentation, captain Rohit said, "Pretty exciting. Good feeling to come out on top. It was a good game to start the tournament for us. I thought it was magnificent, especially the fielding and we saw the effort from everyone today, conditions like this it would be tough. Our bowlers used the conditions perfectly and we knew there would be assistance for everyone, even the seamers got some reverse, the spinners bowled in the nice areas and all in all it was a great effort. I was (nervous), you don't want to start your innings like that, credit to the Aussies bowlers as they bowled in good areas but some loose shots as well, when you have that kind of target you want to score as much as possible in the powerplay, but credit to Virat and KL on how they went about the chase. That is going to be the challenge for us as a team, moving to different conditions and adapting, whoever suits the conditions will have to come and do the job. Chennai never disappoints, they love their cricket and for them to sit in that heat and come out and cheer for the team says a lot." India will now face Afghanistan in their next game, on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: Virat Kohli wins India's best fielder of the match, star batter's celebration goes viral - Watch

<p>India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides&nbsp;in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad. Winning the toss, Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat and were well-placed at 110 for 2 before being reduced to 119 for 5 to be eventually bundled out for 199 in 49.3 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 42) and Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 35) led the charge with the ball before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) constructed a partnership to take India home.</p>

<p>Kohli and Rahul joined forces with India struggling at 2 for 3 before the duo added an impressive 165-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters and steer them to an easy win, with 52 balls remaining. After the clash, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Rahul for his chanceless knock and hailed his fitness for keeping wickets and swift running between the wickets along with Kohli.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said, "The way KL Rahul asserted his authority, he looks to be in a different league. Virat Kohli played a great innings but he could not play a chanceless innings. When KL Rahul was batting, he did not give any chance throughout his innings."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-watch-kl-rahul-hits-a-shot-too-well-for-a-six-vs-australia-and-misses-out-on-scoring-100-644319">ODI World Cup 2023: Watch KL Rahul hits a shot TOO WELL for a six vs Australia and misses out on scoring 100</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul...'</strong></h2>

<p>Akhtar further opined, "Rahul hit shots when it was needed, and soaked in pressure with the situation of the game was tough. Virat Kohli's dropped catch was the turning point yes, but KL Rahul giving stability was crucial. You play him at any number - in the middle order, and opening, he does well. Don't forget that he kept wickets as well just before this for 50 overs."</p>

<p>He added, "People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul is running with him too and also after keeping wickets and that needs to be talked about. KL Rahul is a complete player and needs to be backed throughout."</p>

<p>Rahul missed out on a hundred by finishing the match with a sublime six, off Cummins, when he was on 91. Nonetheless, his form bodes well for India who will now take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad.

India defeated Australia by six wickets in match 5 of the CWC 2023 edition on Sunday (October 8) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This was the opening game for both sides in the marquee event, which kicked off on October 5 in Ahmedabad. Winning the toss, Pat Cummins-led Australia opted to bat and were well-placed at 110 for 2 before being reduced to 119 for 5 to be eventually bundled out for 199 in 49.3 overs. Ravindra Jadeja (3 for 28), Kuldeep Yadav (2 for 42) and Jasprit Bumrah (2 for 35) led the charge with the ball before Virat Kohli (85) and KL Rahul (97 not out) constructed a partnership to take India home. Kohli and Rahul joined forces with India struggling at 2 for 3 before the duo added an impressive 165-run fourth-wicket stand to take India out of troubled waters and steer them to an easy win, with 52 balls remaining. After the clash, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar lauded Rahul for his chanceless knock and hailed his fitness for keeping wickets and swift running between the wickets along with Kohli. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Akhtar said, "The way KL Rahul asserted his authority, he looks to be in a different league. Virat Kohli played a great innings but he could not play a chanceless innings. When KL Rahul was batting, he did not give any chance throughout his innings." Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: Watch KL Rahul hits a shot TOO WELL for a six vs Australia and misses out on scoring 100 'People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul...' Akhtar further opined, "Rahul hit shots when it was needed, and soaked in pressure with the situation of the game was tough. Virat Kohli's dropped catch was the turning point yes, but KL Rahul giving stability was crucial. You play him at any number - in the middle order, and opening, he does well. Don't forget that he kept wickets as well just before this for 50 overs." He added, "People laud Virat Kohli for his fitness and his running between the wickets, but KL Rahul is running with him too and also after keeping wickets and that needs to be talked about. KL Rahul is a complete player and needs to be backed throughout." Rahul missed out on a hundred by finishing the match with a sublime six, off Cummins, when he was on 91. Nonetheless, his form bodes well for India who will now take on Afghanistan on Wednesday (October 11) in New Delhi. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: 'He looks to be in different league' - Akhtar lauds Rahul for classy 97* in India's win vs Australia