The much-anticipated ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 final is on the horizon, featuring a clash between cricket powerhouses India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday, 19 November. This encounter mirrors the 2003 final where Australia emerged victorious in Johannesburg with a 125-run lead, setting the stage for another historic showdown in front of a massive crowd exceeding 100,000 fans.
In the lead-up to the final, India dominated the group stage, securing the top spot with a perfect record of nine wins and accumulating 18 points. Their exceptional net run rate of 2.570 stood out as the best in the group stage. In the semi-final against New Zealand, India showcased a formidable performance, with Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli contributing significantly to a commanding total of 397. Despite a century from Daryl Mitchell, New Zealand fell short by 70 runs.
Australia faced initial setbacks in the tournament, losing to India and South Africa in their opening matches. However, they rallied back, winning their remaining seven matches to qualify with 14 points. In the semi-final against South Africa, despite early pressure, Australia secured a tense three-wicket victory with contributions from Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and David Miller.
The squads for the final feature star players from both teams. India, led by Rohit Sharma, includes key players like Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and Ravindra Jadeja. Australia, captained by Pat Cummins, boasts a formidable lineup with Steve Smith, David Warner, and Mitchell Starc among their key players.
India, as the tournament host, aims to secure their first major ICC global tournament win in 12 years, backed by the home crowd, reminiscent of their 2011 triumph. In contrast, Australia, the most successful nation in the history of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, seeks their sixth title.
In case of weather-related interruptions, a reserve day is in place. The tournament offers a total prize money pool of US$10 million, with the winner receiving US$4 million and the runners-up getting US$2 million. Additionally, teams earn US$40,000 for each group stage win.
The broadcast details for the final are extensive, with Disney Star and its licensees covering the global broadcast. Viewers in India can tune in to Star Sports Network, while unique mobile phone viewing experiences are facilitated by ICC TV and Disney Star. Australia’s coverage is provided by Fox Sports, Kayo, and Channel Nine. The UK audience can catch the action on Sky Sports, with free-to-air highlights on Channel 5. WillowTV covers the USA, SuperSport for South Africa, and Sky Sport NZ for New Zealand.
The Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the largest sports stadium globally, serves as the venue for the final. Its recent redevelopment in 2021 included hosting notable events like a day-night Test between India and England and the last two IPL finals.
For live scores and comprehensive coverage of the Cricket World Cup 2023, fans can visit www.cricketworldcup.com/fixtures.
