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In the build-up to the ICC Men’s Cricket ODI World Cup 2023 final clash between Australia and India, the Australian pace spearhead Mitchell Starc responded with wit and humuor to questions concerning the recent pitch controversy. Following accusations of a last-minute pitch swap in the semi-final between India and New Zealand, Starc was quizzed about potential concerns for the final.
Mitchell Starc’s cheeky response amid pitch concerns
In the aftermath of Australia’s thrilling three-wicket triumph over South Africa in the second semi-final of the CWC 2023, when questioned about his apprehensions regarding the nature of the pitch ahead of the final, given the challenging run-chase against South Africa, Starc responded with a touch of humour.
“I guess we’ll find out when we get to Ahmedabad tomorrow and see if it’s a fresh wicket or an old wicket,” Starc was quoted as saying by 7News.
Also READ: David Lloyd criticizes ICC over pitch change for India’s benefit – ODI World Cup 2023, IND vs NZ
Surreal occasion to face India again
Reflecting on the upcoming final, Starc acknowledged the surreal nature of facing India again, especially considering their previous encounter in the tournament. India had secured a victory over Australia earlier in the competition, setting the stage for an intense and competitive final showdown.
“It’s why we play the game. We want to take on the best. They’ve been the best in the tournament so far and we both find ourselves in the final. That’s what World Cups are about. You want to take on the best throughout and we certainly come up against a team that have obviously led from the front through the tournament and they’re undefeated. We played them in the first game of the tournament, now we get to take them on in the last. So yeah, what a place to be at the end of a World Cup,” the 33-year-old concluded.
India’s dominance and Australia’s quest for the sixth trophy
With a record of nine victories in the group stage and a convincing win against New Zealand in the semi-finals, India enters the final as a formidable force. Meanwhile, Australia, with an eye on their sixth 50-over trophy, will be determined to showcase their prowess and clinch the coveted title for the record sixth time in the final set to take place in Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday, November 19.
