Australian captain Pat Cummins landed in Sydney on a Wednesday morning to a surprisingly quiet airport, devoid of the expected fanfare despite his team’s triumph in the sixth ODI World Cup held in India. Only media representatives were present to welcome the 30-year-old skipper and his fellow players.
This reception sharply contrasted with the enthusiastic and grand receptions typically accorded to heroes in Indian sports, particularly cricketers, following successful performances or victories in prestigious tournaments.
Australia defied expectations by overcoming tournament favorites and hosts, India, in the climactic finale held in Ahmedabad. Despite initial setbacks with defeats in their first two matches, Cummins and the team rallied to secure an impressive nine consecutive victories, culminating in triumph in both the semi-final and final matches.
Video footage captured the subdued arrival of Pat Cummins at the airport, devoid of the expected celebratory reception:
Pat Cummins returns back to Australia as the nationās 5th WC Winning Captain
— RVCJ Media (@RVCJ_FB) November 22, 2023
No grand reception at the airport, WHY SO? š³pic.twitter.com/rXX1jdIiW0
Cummins garnered praise from numerous experts for his shrewd leadership throughout the tournament, especially during the pivotal summit clash. His strategic decisions, starting from opting to bowl first, adeptly rotating bowlers, and setting effective field placements, showcased his precision. His proactive approach played a significant role in limiting the formidable Indian batting lineup to a modest total of 240 runs.
In response, Travis Head’s spectacular 137 and Marnus Labuschagne’s crucial unbeaten 58 guided Australia to a convincing six-wicket victory, achieved in just 43 overs, sealing their comprehensive win.
