NEW DELHI: After delivering a remarkable innings in the World Cup final against India in Ahmedabad, Australia‘s centurion opener, Travis Head, expressed his astonishment, stating that he “never expected this in a million years.”
Head’s innings of 137 runs off 120 balls played a pivotal role in dashing a billion hopes, as Australia successfully chased down the target of 241 with six wickets to spare.His dominating performance against the Indian bowlers not only secured Australia’s victory but also contributed significantly to their record-extending sixth title in the tournament that has been a cricketing tradition since its inception in 1975.
The opener’s unexpected and exceptional display of skill and determination showcased the unpredictable and thrilling nature of cricket, leaving both fans and players in awe of the moments that unfolded in the high-stakes World Cup final.
“Never expected this, not in a million years, truly an exceptional day. A lot better than sitting on the couch at home,” Head said after his heroics that silenced a packed crowd of over 1,30,000 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Australia recovered after losing three wickets for 47 runs in the sixth over thanks to the 192-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Head and Marnus Labuschagne (58 not out off 110 balls).
“Really glad to contribute, the first twenty balls I played gave me a lot of confidence and yea I was able to carry through. The way Mitch Marsh came out and took the game on, he set the tone. That was the energy we wanted and we knew the wicket may get tough,” Head said.
Australia’s decision to bowl after winning the toss was vindicated by their performance with the ball and on the field.
“It was a great decision to bowl first after winning the toss. I felt the wicket got better as the day went on. It took a little bit of spin, it paid dividends. Nice to be a part of it, nice to play a role in all of that,” Head said.
Regarding India skipper Rohit Sharma, who led his team to the final by playing some excellent cricket, Head said he is probably the most unlucky man in the world.
As far as his game is concerned, Head, who pulled off a stunner to send back the swashbuckling Rohit, said, “Again, it’s (fielding) something that I worked hard on. I couldn’t imagine getting a hundred, couldn’t probably imagine holding onto that one. It was great to hold on to that catch.
“Important to look after your team-mates, to be able to do that on the big stage in front of a full house is a nice thing.
On joining the list of centurions in World Cup finals after Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist, Head said, “Definitely, third on that list, it’s a nice one to join, nice to be here and nice to contribute. I’ll just tell the boys that I’m looking forward to the reunion.”
Head’s innings of 137 runs off 120 balls played a pivotal role in dashing a billion hopes, as Australia successfully chased down the target of 241 with six wickets to spare.His dominating performance against the Indian bowlers not only secured Australia’s victory but also contributed significantly to their record-extending sixth title in the tournament that has been a cricketing tradition since its inception in 1975.
The opener’s unexpected and exceptional display of skill and determination showcased the unpredictable and thrilling nature of cricket, leaving both fans and players in awe of the moments that unfolded in the high-stakes World Cup final.
“Never expected this, not in a million years, truly an exceptional day. A lot better than sitting on the couch at home,” Head said after his heroics that silenced a packed crowd of over 1,30,000 at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Australia recovered after losing three wickets for 47 runs in the sixth over thanks to the 192-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Head and Marnus Labuschagne (58 not out off 110 balls).
“Really glad to contribute, the first twenty balls I played gave me a lot of confidence and yea I was able to carry through. The way Mitch Marsh came out and took the game on, he set the tone. That was the energy we wanted and we knew the wicket may get tough,” Head said.
Australia’s decision to bowl after winning the toss was vindicated by their performance with the ball and on the field.
“It was a great decision to bowl first after winning the toss. I felt the wicket got better as the day went on. It took a little bit of spin, it paid dividends. Nice to be a part of it, nice to play a role in all of that,” Head said.
Regarding India skipper Rohit Sharma, who led his team to the final by playing some excellent cricket, Head said he is probably the most unlucky man in the world.
As far as his game is concerned, Head, who pulled off a stunner to send back the swashbuckling Rohit, said, “Again, it’s (fielding) something that I worked hard on. I couldn’t imagine getting a hundred, couldn’t probably imagine holding onto that one. It was great to hold on to that catch.
“Important to look after your team-mates, to be able to do that on the big stage in front of a full house is a nice thing.
On joining the list of centurions in World Cup finals after Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist, Head said, “Definitely, third on that list, it’s a nice one to join, nice to be here and nice to contribute. I’ll just tell the boys that I’m looking forward to the reunion.”
Australia beat India by 6 wickets, win record-extending 6th title | World Cup 2023 Final | INDvsAUS
A teary-eyed Labuschagne termed their achievement unbelievable after Australia completed the job in 43 overs.
“What we’ve achieved today is unbelievable. It’s the best achievement I’ve ever been part of. India have been the team of the tournament, but you knew if you play your best cricket, you have a chance.
“Our bowlers were sensational and Travis put on one hell of a display. The way everything has happened is unbelievable. I’m lost for words. Two months ago, I wasn’t even in the one-day team in South Africa,” Labuschagne said.
(With PTI inputs)
