Australia secured a spot in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 final by defeating South Africa in the second semi-final in Kolkata. The five-time champions chased down the 213-run target with ease. They are all set for a final showdown with hosts India in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
Amidst the anticipation for the final, a statement made by Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh during a podcast with the Delhi Capitals in the IPL has gained attention. Marsh boldly predicted that Australia would win the World Cup for the sixth time.
“Australia is undefeated, beating India. Australia 450/2 in the final, India all-out 65,” Marsh said (28:30).
Despite Marsh’s confident forecast back in May during the IPL 2023, the tournament has unfolded differently. India enters the final with a flawless record of 10 wins as the team to beat in the World Cup.
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Experiencing the eagerness for the challenge, Australian pacer Mitchell Starc said, “We want to take on the best”.
After their semi-final victory over South Africa, Starc acknowledged India’s dominance in the tournament.
“They’ve been performing exceptionally well throughout the tournament. Now, both of us are in the finals. This is what World Cups represent. It’s the reason we play the game. We are definitely facing a team that has been leading from the front throughout the tournament, and they remain undefeated,” he added.
“We faced them in the opening match of the tournament, and now we have the opportunity to compete against them in the final. It’s truly a remarkable position to be in at the conclusion of a World Cup,” he concluded.
The final is poised to be a thrilling clash between two powerhouse teams vying for cricket’s ultimate glory.