• Travis Head, Steve Smith put Australia in control against India on Day 1 of WTC 2023 Final.

  • Head became the first batter to smash a century in a WTC final.

Twitter reactions: Travis Head, Steve Smith sizzle as Australia take control on Day 1 of WTC 2023 Final against India
Australia take control on Day 1 of WTC 2023 Final (Image Source: Twitter)

Australia dominated India on the opening day of the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the Oval in London after Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bowl first. At the close of play, the Aussies demonstrated absolute control with Travis Head and Steve Smith leading the charge. Head remained unbeaten on 146 runs, while Smith, on the verge of his 31st Test century, scored an impressive 95 not out as Australia finished the day’s play at 327/3.

India did perform well in the first session as Australia were in a spot of bother, having lost three wickets for 76. However, Smith and Head completely changed the game with their unbeaten partnership of 251 runs for the fourth wicket.

Head showcased why he is considered a formidable batter as he delivered one of the most exceptional Test innings against India. Notably, the left-handed explosive batter became the first player to smash a century in a WTC final. While Head took on the role of the aggressor, forging a hard-fought partnership with Smith, the latter played a supporting role until reaching his half-century.

Towards the conclusion of the opening day’s play, Smith showcased his skills by delivering a flurry of delightful shots. Taking advantage of India’s sluggish over-rate, he maximized a few additional minutes on the field. Currently, Smith stands just 5 runs away from hitting his 31st Test century and his 9th triple-figure score against India.

Here is how Twitter reacted:

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About the Author:
AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.