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The dream of ending their trophy drought since 2013 slipped away from Team India as they faced a disheartening defeat against Australia in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Former England skipper Nasser Hussain, in the aftermath of the match, provided insights into the reasons behind India’s painful loss.
Many fans had high hopes for the Men in Blue to break the trophy jinx in the much-anticipated final, but Australia secured their sixth ODI World Cup trophy with a convincing 6-wicket victory.
Nasser Hussain points out reason behind the loss
Nasser, known for his astute cricketing observations, pointed out a crucial factor that played a role in India’s defeat. According to the former English skipper, India’s lengthy tail, comprising bowlers who aren’t strong batters, restricted the aggression of Virat Kohli and KL Rahul during their partnership in the World Cup final.
During their stand, which lasted for 17 overs, Kohli and Rahul managed only a single boundary while attempting to revive hopes of a competitive total. Nasser highlighted the lack of aggression displayed by both batsmen during this crucial partnership.
“India are still a great side – but the pitch brought Australia into it. India’s four bowlers not being able to bat that well came back to haunt them. That’s why Rahul and Kohli couldn’t go hard. They were worried about Shami at No. 8,” explained Nasser Hussain on Star Sports.
Also READ: ‘We stand with you’ – Narendra Modi consoles Team India after heartbreaking loss against Australia in ODI World Cup 2023 Final
Eoin Morgan shares his disappointment
Eoin Morgan, the captain who led England to victory in the 2019 World Cup, expressed disappointment with Kohli and Rahul’s performance. He believed that India dug themselves into a hole during that partnership and failed to stand up as they would have liked. Morgan acknowledged Australia’s complete dominance in outplaying the Indian team.
“They will be unbelievably disappointed. They dug themselves into a hole when Kohli and Rahul were batting and didn’t stand up as they would have liked. They were completely outplayed, but the young players in the dressing room will learn from this experience,” remarked Morgan.
