In the highly anticipated World Test Championship Final at The Oval, Australia emerged victorious with a resounding 209-run triumph over India. Stellar performances in the first innings by Travis Head and Steve Smith set the stage for Australia’s control of the match. Although India fought back admirably, their valiant efforts fell short as they were bowled out for 234, missing out on a historic record chase to win the Test.
The Australian bowlers, led by Scott Boland’s early breakthroughs, swiftly dismantled India’s batting lineup on the final day. Nathan Lyon and Mitchell Starc also contributed to the onslaught, as Australia clinched the World Test Championship title with a dominant display.
Australia’s dominance throughout the WTC cycle, boasting 11 wins out of 19 matches, earned them the top spot in the standings and secured their place in the final against India. Nathan Lyon concluded the Test Championship campaign as the highest wicket-taker, while four of the top six run-scorers were Australian, including the outstanding performances of Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, and Steve Smith.
Australia’s Dominance Throughout WTC Cycle Secures Top Spot
India’s strong finish in the tournament secured them the second spot in the standings and a place in the final against Australia. However, their defeat in the final marks their second loss in the two WTC Finals held since the tournament’s inception.
The fifth day of the final began with all results still possible, as Australia needed seven wickets for victory while India required 280 runs to achieve an unprecedented fourth-innings chase. Scott Boland’s early breakthroughs in the morning session tilted the game in Australia’s favor, with Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon also contributing crucial wickets. Australia wrapped up the match before lunch, with Lyon finishing with impressive figures of 4/41.
India will reflect on their performance on the opening day, which put them at a disadvantage for the remainder of the match. Meanwhile, Australia’s triumph in the WTC Final fills a major void in their trophy cabinet, securing the prestigious ICC silverware they had been missing.
