WTC Final 2023, Day 2: India Finishes Day on 151/5 at Stumps, Trails by 318 Runs against Australia

WTC Final 2023, Ind vs Aus: Australia ends Day 2 in command as their pacers continue the earlier dominance by their batsmen, taking five Indian wickets. Ravindra Jadeja and Ajinkya Rahane put up a fight with a 71-run partnership. Jadeja showcased fine form, hitting seven fours and a six in his 48 before Nathan Lyon dismissed him. Virat Kohli fell victim to Mitchell Starc’s unexpected bounce, caught in the slip cordon for 14, adding to India’s woes. After posting 469, Australia improved their position in the match by eliminating Rohit Sharma (15) and Shubman Gill (13) early. Although the Indian openers got off to a solid start, they were unable to handle the inswingers.

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Australia’s Innings

In an eventful session, Steven Smith notched his impressive 31st test century, while Travis Head reached a commendable milestone of 150 runs. However, their flourishing partnership was interrupted by the formidable bowling duo of Shardul Thakur and Mohammed Siraj, who dismissed both batsmen before Tea. To add to Australia’s woes, Mohammed Shami also claimed the prized wicket of Cameron Green.

With the dismissals of Smith and Head, the Indian bowlers seized the opportunity and gained momentum, taking quick wickets to restrict Australia to a total of 469 runs. Mohammed Shami and Shardul Thakur showcased their skills by securing two wickets each, while Ravindra Jadeja contributed with a crucial dismissal. Notably, Mohammed Siraj emerged as the star bowler for India, impressively scalping four important wickets, ultimately curtailing Australia’s first innings on an eventful day.

India’s Innings

The batting order was unable to stand strong before the Australian bowling attack, despite Indian bowlers picking up steam on Day 2 and limiting the Australians to 469. India has surpassed the 151-run mark but is still 318 runs behind after losing 5 wickets at Stumps.

No other Indian batsman could score more than 25 runs, with the exception of Ajinkya Rahane (29) and Ravindra Jadeja (48). Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Scott Boland, Cameron Green, and Nathan Lyon all claimed one wicket each for Australia.

India trail by 318 runs

Team India finds themselves trailing by a substantial margin of 318 runs as Australia dominated the proceedings on this particular day. The task of avoiding a follow-on seems formidable, with India still needing 118 runs to achieve that feat. Ajinkya Rahane, despite facing a blow on his finger, displayed a fluent batting performance and showed resilience in his determined approach. Currently, he stands at 29 runs off 71 deliveries, while KS Bharat holds steady at the other end with five runs off 14 balls.

The Australian bowling attack proved potent as each of their five bowlers claimed a wicket apiece. It is worth noting that Pat Cummins, amidst his spell, bowled some no balls, one of which was the wicket of Ajinkya Rahane. The challenge ahead appears substantial for the Indian batsmen as they strive to close the gap and consolidate their position in the game.

WTC Final 2023

The highly anticipated Day 2 of the WTC 2023 Final between India and Australia unfolded with great anticipation. India determined to claim the coveted WTC title after their previous loss to New Zealand in the inaugural edition of the championship, faced off against a formidable Australian side.

The match, set to span five days from June 7th to June 11th, boasted an additional reserve day to accommodate any potential disruptions caused by unfavorable weather conditions. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly tuned in, both teams geared up for an enthralling battle that could potentially shape the destiny of the championship.

FAQs on WTC Final 2023

Who will win WTC Final 2023?

Australia has the most chance of winning the final, but the match can end in a draw.

What if the WTC concludes in a draw?

In the event of a draw in the India vs. Australia WTC Final, both teams would share the ICC Test championship title.

What did Virat Kohli say about Steve Smith?

Virat Kohli has acclaimed Steve Smith, an Australian cricketer, as the finest Test batsman of their generation, highlighting his remarkable consistency and “unbelievable” run-scoring average. Prior to the ongoing WTC final clash between India and Australia, Kohli expressed, “In my opinion, Steve Smith is the premier Test player of our generation. He has proven that with his incredible adaptability. He stands out among all cricketers of this era.”