After reaching a score of 164/3, India experienced a sudden and dramatic collapse, losing 7 wickets during the morning session and ultimately succumbing to a crushing 209-run defeat. This marked India’s second consecutive loss in a WTC final, as they had previously been defeated by New Zealand in the inaugural edition’s title clash back in 2021.
The turning point occurred when Virat Kohli went after a wide delivery outside off and ended up nicking it, resulting in a brilliant catch by Steve Smith at second slip. This turned out to be the decisive blow. In the same over, Scott Boland struck again, dismissing Ravindra Jadeja. From that point on, the match became completely one-sided.
Despite being expensive, Mitchell Starc managed to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane, who was India’s top run-scorer in the game. The tailenders couldn’t offer much resistance, as Australia’s esteemed offspinner, Nathan Lyon, ended up with a four-wicket haul. Australia, after being asked to bat first, took control with a big total. India spent the entire Test playing catch-up, and none of their batters were able to convert their promising starts.
Here is how Twitter reacted:
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.