Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin commended Australia’s triumph in the ODI World Cup final against India, attributing the Baggy Greens’ record sixth title to their remarkable tactical prowess showcased during the summit clash at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
Despite two initial losses in the league stage, Australia secured eight consecutive victories, earning them a spot in the finals against India, which they won by six wickets, largely due to Travis Head’s outstanding 137-run inning.
Ashwin praised Pat Cummins for his “tactical masterclass” in the finals, particularly noting Cummins’ strategic field placements and stump-line deliveries, restricting the batters’ driving options without a mid-off fielder.
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Ashwin on Australia batting first
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Reflecting on Australia’s unexpected decision to bowl first after winning the toss, Ashwin admitted being deceived as he expected the team to traditionally bat first. Australia’s choice, based on analyzing the pitch’s black soil favoring evening batting, surprised him.
“I thought Australia would bat first if they won the toss because historically, it’s an Aussie thing to ‘win the toss and bat’. The wicket used for the final was not Ahmedabad soil, it was rather from Odisha,” mentioned Ashwin, highlighting the nature of the pitch.
India, batting first, managed a below-par score of 240 runs as Australia’s bowlers dominated with accurate lines and lengths. The Australian pace trio, led by Mitchell Starc, claimed seven wickets, supported by Cummins and Josh Hazlewood.
Ashwin also recounted his conversation with Australia’s Chief Selector George Bailey, who explained their decision based on their extensive experience playing in India, emphasizing the behaviour of black soil pitches under lights.
Expressing disappointment at playing only one World Cup match, Ashwin mentioned his readiness to play against New Zealand but was sidelined due to Hardik Pandya’s crucial injury, leaving India without a replacement all-rounder.
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