World Cup Final Preview: One last dance for India & Australia

India and Australia will take on each other in the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on Sunday, November 19 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India are coming into the game having beaten New Zealand in the first semi-final in Mumbai by 70 runs. On the other hand, Australia sealed their place in the final with a thrilling three-wicket win over South Africa in the second semi-final at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

India and Australia both started their World Cup campaign with a game against each other at Chennai. The ‘Men in Blue’ began their campaign on a winning note. They continued their unbeaten run throughout the league stage, finishing the league stage at the top of the table.

On the other hand, Australia began their campaign with back-to-back losses against India and South Africa. However, they went on to win all of their remaining eight matches. The Kangaroos finished on the third spot on the points table with 14 points from nine matches.

Notably, the two teams faced each other once before in the final in the 2003 edition. Back then, Australia emerged victorious by 125 runs in the 2003 showpiece final. Hence, the ‘Men in Blue’ will be eager to avenge their loss this time around.

Pitch Report

Out of the last five matches played at the venue, three have been won by teams batting second. The average first innings score has been 253. While the highest target chased in the history of the venue is 325. Despite the record being heavily in favour of teams chasing, the captain winning the toss will look to bat first considering the massive pressure of the final.

Probable Playing XI