LONDON: Australia has been crowned the World Test Champions for the first time in history, defeating India by 209 runs in a thrilling final at The Oval on Sunday. The Australian cricket team showcased their dominance throughout the match, taking control early on and maintaining their stronghold until the final wicket fell.
Travis Head and Steve Smith played crucial roles in Australia’s first innings, scoring impressive centuries that set the tone for the match. Despite a resilient fightback from India, the target of 444 to win proved too challenging as they were eventually bowled out for 234, falling short of the record chase required to win the Test.
Scott Boland’s outstanding performance triggered a remarkable collapse as Australia thrashed India by 209 runs to claim the World Test Championship (WTC) title.
India, facing an unprecedented target of 444 runs for victory, resumed their innings on the fifth day at 164-3. However, they suffered a stunning batting collapse, eventually getting bowled out for 234 runs, losing seven wickets for just 70 runs in less than 24 overs before lunch.
India’s Downfall
Boland played a pivotal role in India’s downfall, picking up two crucial wickets in a single over, including the prized scalp of Virat Kohli, enroute to impressive figures of 3-46 in his 16 overs. The off-spinner Nathan Lyon also contributed significantly, claiming four wickets for 41 runs to wrap up the Indian innings.
With this resounding victory, Australia secured the only major men’s cricket title that had eluded them in the past. The triumph has further boosted the confidence of Pat Cummins and his team as they now head into the upcoming first Ashes Test against England next week.
On the other hand, the defeat leaves India still in pursuit of their first global cricket trophy in a decade, having previously suffered a loss to New Zealand in the inaugural WTC final held in Southampton in 2021.
The task before India was an uphill battle, with the target of 444 runs far surpassing the highest successful run chase in the history of Test cricket, which stands at the West Indies’ remarkable 418-7 against Australia in St John’s back in 2003.
Australia’s victory in the WTC final marks a historic moment for their cricketing journey, while India will undoubtedly reflect on their performance as they continue their pursuit of international silverware.
