India skipper Rohit Sharma has expressed his confidence in his team's ability to adapt to any pitch conditions, ahead of the much-anticipated ODI World Cup 2023 final against Australia which will be held on November 19, Sunday. The final, scheduled to be played place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, will be played on a pitch that was last used during India's group stage match against Pakistan.
Meanwhile, during the pre-match press conference, Rohit was asked about the pitch conditions and whether the toss would play a significant role in the outcome of the match. He acknowledged that the pitch was ‘a lot drier’ against Pakistan but noted that it now has a bit of grass. However, he said that the Indian team is prepared to play on any surface and that the toss will not be a determining factor.
"There's a bit of grass on the track. The wicket from India vs Pakistan was a lot drier. From my understanding, it's going to be on a slower side. We'll see the pitch tomorrow and assess. The temperature has dropped a bit as well. I don't know how much of a factor the dew will be. I don't think the toss will play a big role," Rohit said on the eve of India vs Australia World Cup final.
The pitches used during the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 have drawn scrutiny from various quarters, with accusations surfacing that major matches are being played on ‘used’ surfaces to favor the Indian spinners. Meanwhile, Australia captain Pat Cummins also reacted on condition of the pitches.
"Again, I'm not a great pitch reader, but it looked pretty firm. They've only just watered it, so yeah, give it another 24 hours and have a look, but it looks like a pretty good wicket. Yes, it has been used before. Pakistan played someone (India on October 14) there," Cummins said.
Australia and India will be facing each other for the second time in the ODI World Cup final. The last time Australia ended up lifting the trophy by defeating India in the 2003 World Cup final.
Rohit is fully aware of who the Team India is locking horns with in the World Cup final. Rohit said that he very well know what Australia can do.
"Australia have won 8 out of 8. They have played good cricket and both the teams deserve to be in the finals. We know what Australia can do. They are a very complete side. We want to focus on what we want to do. We don't want to worry about what kind of form they are in rather focus on our cricket and plans," the Indian captain concluded.
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