In a dramatic finale to the men’s World Cup, Australia clinched their sixth title, leaving thousands of Indian supporters in disbelief as their team faltered at the last hurdle. Despite a resilient performance by Indian cricket icons Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, Australia’s Pat Cummins orchestrated a spectacular comeback.
After India posted a modest 240 on a challenging pitch, a chaotic start to Australia’s chase saw them at 47 for three in seven overs. However, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne showcased resilience, steering Australia to victory with a magnificent 192-run fourth-wicket stand. Head’s masterful 137 off 120 balls, complemented by Labuschagne’s steadfast 58 not out, secured the win with seven overs to spare.
Cummins, instrumental throughout the tournament, strategically led Australia’s bowling attack, disrupting India’s batting lineup. His decision to bowl after winning the toss raised eyebrows but proved effective as Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood’s exceptional performances, coupled with Cummins’ two wickets, limited India to 240.
Despite Kohli’s half-century and a valiant effort by KL Rahul, India struggled to accelerate, and Australia’s livewire fielding further hindered their progress. In the end, India’s hopes were dashed as Australia secured victory, defying expectations in what was supposed to be India’s home coronation.
For Head, whose resilience after missing the initial games due to injury shone through, the triumph was highlighted by a spectacular century, becoming the third Australian man to achieve this feat in a World Cup final, following Adam Gilchrist and Ricky Ponting.
As celebrations ensued on the field, India had to settle for the runners-up position, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi presenting the World Cup trophy to the deserving Cummins. The stunning upset served as a reminder that in sports, nothing is preordained, concluding a 46-day journey that defied expectations for the hosts.