The World Cup 2023 is poised for a high-voltage grand finale as India and Australia will take on each other in the title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on November 19, Sunday. India, the only side who are still unbeaten in the World Cup 2023, have recorded 10 straight victories in the tournament. In contrast, Australia, led by Pat Cummins, started their campaign with two defeats, prompting many to write them off early. However, they staged a remarkable comeback, remaining unbeaten ever since.
Kangaroos' journey began with a loss to India in their opening match, followed by a disappointing defeat to South Africa in their second encounter. However, they exacted revenge against the Proteas in the semi-finals which paved their path for the World Cup 2023 final. On the other hand, India thrashed New Zealand in their semi-final clash, redeeming themselves after their defeat to the same team in the 2019 World Cup semifinal.
As the much-anticipated final nears, the debate between Virat Kohli and Steve Smith has once again surfaced. While one player has been in exceptional form throughout the tournament, the other has remained relatively quiet. Kohli stands atop the run-scoring charts, having amassed an impressive 711 runs in just 10 matches, riding on three centuries. During India's semi-final match, Kohli shattered Sachin Tendulkar's all-time record of most ODI tons by notching his 50th hundred in the One Day Internationals, and is gearing up to make another impact in the grand final. Kohli is also a seasoned veteran, having played a crucial role in India's 2011 ODI World Cup victory, with legends like MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar by his side.
In contrast to Kohli's exceptional form, Steve Smith's contribution has been relatively modest, with a total of 298 runs so far in the the ODI World Cup 2023. Weighing in on the Kohli vs Smith debate, Australian great Ian Chappell expressed his admiration for the Indian batting maestro, stating, "No, we haven't seen Smith's best form yet. Let's revisit Kohli first. There was a period in his career when he averaged over 50 across all three formats, an exceptional feat. In my opinion, Kohli is arguably the finest batsman of this era. I admire his attitude. I heard an interview where he discussed his batting approach, and I find it truly remarkable. Another noteworthy aspect is his fitness. At the age of 36, observe his agility between the wickets. He clearly prioritizes fitness," Chappell said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
"Steve Smith, he is an important man in this Australian side, even though he hasn't played his best. He plays spin better than anyone in the team and that might be really important in the final. Steve Smith tries to play his own way and that is important, but to me one of the crucial guys for Australia will be David Warner at the top," he further added.
Notably, it will be the second time India and Australia will face off in a World Cup final, having previously faced each other in the 2003 title clash, where Ricky Ponting's Australia emerged victorious over Sourav Ganguly's India.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Gautam Gambhir's blunt take on India vs Australia's World Cup final, says 'They are still very vulnerable...'
WATCH: IAF rehearses for mesmerising air show at Narendra Modi Stadium for India vs Australia World Cup final
