In a dazzling display of cricket prowess, opener Travis Head’s magnificent knock of 137 led Australia to a historic sixth World Cup title with a convincing six-wicket victory over India in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Facing a challenging target of 241 in the final, Australia found themselves at 47-3 before Head, displaying remarkable resilience, notched his second century of the tournament. His spectacular partnership of 192 with Marnus Labuschagne (unbeaten on 58) ended India’s dominant streak of 10 unbeaten matches at the event.
Head’s splendid 120-ball innings, adorned with 15 fours and four sixes, came to an end before Glenn Maxwell sealed the win, sparking wild celebrations in the Australian camp.
The bowlers played a crucial role in Australia’s triumph, as Mitchell Starc (3-55) and Pat Cummins (2-34) helped bowl out India for 240. Despite early setbacks, Head’s composure stood out as he thwarted the Indian attack, steering Australia to victory with seven overs to spare.
Head’s century marked the seventh in a World Cup final and the third by an Australian, joining the ranks of Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist.
Australia’s decision to field first paid off, with disciplined bowling and impressive fielding restricting India’s batting power. Despite efforts from Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66), the slow, dry pitch favored the ball over the bat.
Noteworthy moments included Head’s stunning catch to dismiss Rohit Sharma and Cummins bowling out Kohli, the tournament’s leading batsman with 765 runs.
Travis Head, who overcame a fractured hand earlier in the year, emerged as a key player for Australia, turning the tables in critical moments. His remarkable journey from injury to World Cup heroics adds another chapter to Australia’s cricketing legacy. Congratulations to the Aussies on their outstanding victory!
