Rohit Sharma’s decision to bowl first paid off as India made an impressive start on the opening day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia at the Kennington Oval in London. Winning the toss and electing to bowl, India’s bowlers made early breakthroughs, removing three Australian batsmen before the close of play.
Australia, playing their first-ever WTC Final, managed to accumulate 327 runs for the loss of three wickets at stumps on Day 1. The experienced duo of Steven Smith and Travis Head held the crease firmly for the Aussies, setting up a solid foundation for their team.
India, on the other hand, made a surprising move by dropping the world’s number one bowler, Ravichandran Ashwin, from their playing eleven. This decision showcased the team’s intent to go with a different strategy in this crucial encounter.
India, aiming to secure its first ICC trophy in almost a decade, is determined to break its title drought since the 2013 Champions Trophy. Australia, boasting an impressive track record in other ICC tournaments, seeks to add the WTC title to their already illustrious collection.
Led by Pat Cummins, Australia will be keen to avenge their loss to India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India, meanwhile, is playing their second consecutive WTC Final, eager to turn the tide after their defeat against New Zealand at Lord’s.
