Rafiq Maqbool/AP


Australia secured a historic sixth men’s Cricket World Cup title after a remarkable victory over host nation India in Ahmedabad. Despite facing a partisan home crowd, Australia defied the odds to triumph by six wickets in an intense battle.


India, having dominated much of the tournament with 10 consecutive wins, narrowly missed meeting their country's expectations. The cricket-obsessed nation, eagerly awaiting another one-day trophy after 12 years, had placed immense pressure on the team. However, Australia's strategic bowling disrupted India's typically strong batting line-up, setting the stage for an outstanding run chase led by Travis Head's spectacular 137 off 120 balls, ultimately securing another World Cup trophy for Australia.


With the host nation having won the last three World Cups and India holding the No. 1 spot in the world rankings, expectations were high, especially at the 132,000-seat Narendra Modi Stadium.

Aijaz Rahi/AP


In the final match, India's explosive start, including Captain Rohit Sharma's remarkable performance and a record-equalling 80 runs in the powerplay, initially set a thrilling tone. However, Australia's strong bowling and strategic fielding turned the tide, leading to key dismissals that influenced the game's momentum.


Subsequently, Australia's disciplined rotation of bowlers prevented India's batsmen from establishing partnerships, limiting their scoring opportunities. Despite determined efforts from Indian batsmen like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, the pressure intensified, and India struggled to build significant partnerships. While Rahul battled to 66 off 107 balls, the overall total remained challenging to defend.


In response, Australia faced early setbacks but regrouped as Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne forged a game-changing partnership. Head's outstanding innings, earning him the title of player of the match, and Labuschagne's valuable contribution turned the momentum in Australia's favour, ultimately leading them to a well-deserved victory.


The gripping match concluded with Maxwell's decisive winning runs, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Australian team.