Australia Sets World Record Target of 444 in World Test Championship Final at Oval
In an exhilarating turn of events at the World Test Championship final, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins made a bold declaration, setting India an unprecedented target of 444 runs to win. The gripping contest at the Oval had cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats as India closed day four at 164-3, leaving them with a challenging task of scoring 280 runs on the final day. With Virat Kohli leading the charge, India refused to surrender, displaying determination and skill despite the daunting odds.
Heading into the final day, Australia stood just seven wickets away from securing the prestigious World Test Championship crown. However, Kohli’s presence on the field instilled hope in the Indian team and their loyal supporters.
Kohli and Rahane’s Resilience:
Despite India finding themselves in a precarious position at 93-3, Kohli’s composed innings of 44 not out kept Australia on their toes, wary of a potential comeback. The former captain formed an unbroken partnership of 71 runs with Ajinkya Rahane, showcasing their resolve and determination to defy the odds.
With a run rate of 4.10, India managed to maintain pace with the seemingly unattainable target, keeping their hopes alive. Also Read: How to Stream the Italian Open 2023 Online for Free : A Tennis Fan’s Guide
Cummins’ Strategic Declaration:
Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper, strategically declared their second innings at 270-8 during the fourth afternoon. By setting such a monumental target, Cummins challenged India to surpass the highest-ever chase in Test cricket history, requiring 26 runs more than any team has ever achieved. Additionally, India had to surpass their own record by 38 runs.
India’s Promising Start Dented by a Sensational Catch:
India’s openers, Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, started strongly, defying the challenging odds. However, their optimism was dealt a blow when Cameron Green took a remarkable left-handed catch in the gully off Scott Boland’s delivery, just before tea. The catch, which was initially scrutinized by the crowd and television viewers, was deemed clean by the umpire after a thorough examination of the slow-motion replays.
Green’s exceptional catch was his second of the match, exemplifying his growing influence as an all-rounder. This dismissal proved crucial in curbing India’s early aggression, as they had scored nine fours and a six in the first 10 overs.
Kohli and Rahane Steady the Ship:
Despite the setback, Kohli and Rahane refused to back down, offering a resilient fight against the Australian attack. Kohli displayed his mastery by expertly flicking boundaries through the leg side, while Rahane provided solid support. With minimal success for Australia in the last half-hour, India’s hopes of an improbable victory were still alive.
Australia’s Steady Progress Towards Declaration:
Australia approached their declaration with calmness and control. Marnus Labuschagne added no further runs to his overnight score of 41 before falling to a catch at slip by Umesh Yadav. Cameron Green contributed with a patient 25 before accidentally diverting Ravindra Jadeja’s delivery onto his own stumps. However, the runs continued to flow.
Alex Carey used this opportunity to gain valuable time in the middle, remaining unbeaten on 66. Mitchell Starc showcased his batting prowess, adding a quickfire 41 to propel Australia’s innings forward.
Cummins’ Impactful Innings:
With the advantage crossing the 400-run mark, all eyes were on Pat Cummins. He delivered a decisive blow by smashing Mohammed Shami into the on-side before being dismissed as the eighth wicket.
