India’s journey to the World Cup final was marked by 10 consecutive victories, showcasing the team’s unwavering dominance. They had overcome formidable opponents, including Australia, Pakistan, and New Zealand, ticking every box along the way. The bowlers’ relentless performances and the brilliance of batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had propelled India to the cusp of glory.
However, in a cruel twist of fate, Australia emerged as an unstoppable force in the final. Within eight hours, they shattered India’s dreams of a World Cup triumph, leaving the entire nation heartbroken. Australia’s victory was particularly bitter for India, as it came after their loss to India in the World Cup opener and a series defeat just prior to the tournament.
Pat Cummins, who had already experienced a remarkable year with victories in the World Test Championship and the Ashes, led Australia to their fifth World Cup title. Reflecting on the victory, Cummins acknowledged India’s formidable strength but emphasized Australia’s belief in their ability to succeed. “We did feel 50-50, but they were running hot. They played an amazing tournament, but they are a side we have beaten before… a lot,” Cummins said.
Despite being one of the tournament favorites, Australia faced an uncertain start to their World Cup campaign, losing to India and South Africa. However, they rose from the ashes, winning 10 consecutive matches and showcasing their ruthless determination. Cummins admitted that the team was far from its best at the outset but gradually found their rhythm.
“Going into the tournament, we hadn’t played much cricket together as an ODI team. There was a lot of experience; a lot of the guys had played together in the T20 World Cup the previous year or Test cricket together, but the ODI team hadn’t really come together until the start of the tournament. We had a few injuries as well,” Cummins mentioned.
“It was just that actual going out and doing it. Felt like we started off slowly but one person always dragged us out of different games and we just managed to start pulling the winds. And then before you knew it, we were in top form, playing the semi-finals and anything can happen once you make it that far. There was always this confidence and belief and it just kept getting stronger once we got towards the final.”
Australia’s victory in the World Cup final served as a testament to their resilience and ability to overcome adversity. Despite India’s impressive performance, Australia’s unwavering belief and relentless pursuit of victory proved to be the decisive factors.
