Siraj is now replaced by Starc, but unfortunately for Starc, he gets run out! Axar delivers a direct hit, and India believes they have dismissed Starc. The Indian team erupts in celebration, and the first replay confirms their jubilation. Starc is indeed out. The Indian substitute demonstrates exceptional fielding skills, aggressively attacking the ball, skillfully picking it up with one hand to his left, and swiftly throwing it at the stumps located at the bowler’s end.
As a result, Starc falls short of the crease by a significant distance. It was a risky decision to attempt a single after Starc hit the ball towards mid-on, but he underestimated the skill of the left-handed Axar and ultimately paid the price for it.
Travis Head displayed a remarkable performance, smashing a century off just 106 balls, while Steve Smith reached his half-century, putting Australia firmly in control on the first day of the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Team India at The Oval. The duo formed a vital partnership for the fourth wicket, rescuing Australia after Pat Cummins and his teammates found themselves struggling at 76/3 during the second session.
India began the day strongly as pace bowler Mohammed Siraj dismissed Usman Khawaja for a duck in the opening session. However, opener David Warner and the highest-ranked Australian batsman, Marnus Labuschagne, steadied the innings by adding 69 runs for the second wicket.
Warner, the left-handed opener, departed after scoring a brisk 43 off 60 deliveries. In the second session, Mohammed Shami dismissed Labuschagne for 26, setting the stage for Smith and Head to dominate the proceedings and ensure Australia’s position of strength.
The exceptional partnership between Head and Smith saw them accumulate 251 runs off 370 balls, propelling Australia to a commanding total of 327/3 in 85 overs by the end of the first day of the WTC final at The Oval.
