AHMEDABAD (Web Desk) – In a gripping finale at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Australia emerged victorious in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, securing their sixth world cricket championship by defeating host India by 6 wickets on Sunday.
Australian captain Pat Cummins, after winning the toss, elected to bowl first, a decision that proved instrumental as the Australian bowlers restricted the formidable Indian batting lineup to a total of 240 runs in 50 overs. KL Rahul top-scored with 66 runs, while Virat Kohli contributed 54 runs.
In response, Australia chased down the target of 241 runs in 43 overs due to stellar performances by batsmen Travis Head and Labuschagne. Head played a phenomenal innings, scoring 137 runs off 120 balls, while Labuschagne added a crucial unbeaten 58 runs. Their partnership shattered India’s hopes and secured Australia’s triumph in the World Cup.
The victory marked Australia’s sixth ICC ODI World Cup title, with previous triumphs in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, and 2015.
Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, boasting a capacity of 132,000 spectators, witnessed a tense battle between the cricketing giants. The presence of a large number of Indian fans, including numerous celebrities, added to the electrifying atmosphere of the final.
India’s innings saw an aggressive start with opener Shubman Gill, but the Australian bowlers dominated the match after dismissing Gill early on. Captain Rohit Sharma provided a promising start with a quick 47 runs off 31 balls, but his departure marked a turning point. Despite efforts from Virat Kohli (54 runs) and KL Rahul (66 runs), Australia’s bowlers maintained control, preventing Indian batsmen from playing freely.
Mitchell Starc led Australia’s bowling attack, claiming 3 wickets, while Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins took 2 wickets each. Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell contributed with a wicket each.
The victory celebration echoed through the stadium as Australia rejoiced in reclaiming the coveted ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, capping off a thrilling tournament that will be remembered for years to come.
