Travis Head and Steven Smith Shine on Day One of ICC World Test Championship Final 2023: India vs Australia | Match Report | As it Happened
In a thrilling start to the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023 between India and Australia at The Oval, Travis Head and Steven Smith displayed exceptional batting skills to put Australia in a commanding position. Despite India winning the toss, their bowlers struggled to contain the relentless onslaught by the Australian duo. Let’s dive into the action-packed day one and examine the key highlights of the match.
1. Travis Head’s Spectacular Century | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
Travis Head, known for his aggressive style of play, showcased his prowess with an outstanding century. This remarkable achievement marked the first century in a WTC final. Head’s unbeaten knock of 146 runs off 156 deliveries included 22 fours and a six. His aggressive stroke play left the Indian bowlers searching for answers, as Head dominated the proceedings and firmly established Australia’s dominance.
2. Steven Smith’s Resilience | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
While Head took charge with his aggressive batting, Steven Smith displayed his resilience at the crease. Smith fell just five runs short of his 31st Test century, but his gritty innings of 95 runs off 102 deliveries played a vital role in Australia’s commanding total. Smith’s ability to weather the storm and build crucial partnerships with Head ensured Australia’s dominance throughout the day.
3. India’s Bowling Selection Dilemma | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
One of the major talking points of the day was India’s decision to opt for a four-man pace attack, leaving out spinner R Ashwin. This strategy, which had worked for India against England in 2021, raised eyebrows as the pitch at The Oval had 6mm of grass cover. However, the Indian pacers failed to capitalize on the conditions, lacking control and leaking runs. Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur, the third and fourth pacers, struggled to make an impact, conceding 129 runs in their combined 32 overs.
4. Early Promising Signs | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
India’s opening bowlers, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, provided a promising start by dismissing Usman Khawaja early. The duo bowled with precision and discipline, creating chances and putting Australia under pressure. However, India failed to maintain the same level of control as the change-up bowlers, Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur, struggled to contain the Australian batsmen.
5. Head’s Counterattack and Smith’s Solidity | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
Travis Head’s counterattacking approach put India on the back foot. His aggressive stroke play through the off side caused headaches for the Indian bowlers, who struggled to find effective strategies to contain him. On the other hand, Steven Smith played with solidity, patiently building his innings despite facing challenges posed by uneven bounce and sideways movement.
6. Thakur’s Ambitious Bowling | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
Shardul Thakur, known for his ambition and attacking mindset, went searching for wickets but often erred in line and length. His inclination towards bowling full and straight, which had worked well in the past, proved costly against the well-set Smith. Smith capitalized on Thakur’s approach and cashed in, accumulating valuable runs for Australia.
7. India’s Bowling Changes | ICC WTC Final 2023 | India vs Australia:
India’s decision to introduce Ravindra Jadeja, their lone spinner, late into the second session raised eyebrows. Jadeja had previously enjoyed success against Smith in the Border-Gavaskar series in India, making his delayed introduction questionable. The move allowed Smith to settle in, and by the time Jadeja came on to bowl, Australia had gained a firm grip on the game.
8. India’s Fatigued Bowling Unit:
India’s fast bowlers, Shami, Siraj, and Thakur, bowled long spells and showed signs of exhaustion towards the end of the day. Their toil was evident from their landing on a braced front knee, indicating the physical strain they had endured. Regaining momentum on day two would be a significant challenge for the Indian team, especially considering the toll on their fast bowlers.
Conclusion:
The opening day of the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023 witnessed an extraordinary batting display by Travis Head and Steven Smith, propelling Australia to a commanding position. India’s decision to rely on a four-man pace attack instead of including R Ashwin raised questions, as the Indian bowlers struggled to contain the Australian onslaught. As the match progresses, India will need to regroup, reassess their strategies, and find ways to make a comeback in this crucial encounter. The stage is set for an exhilarating day two, where India will aim to turn the tide in their favor.
