Just a month ago, Travis Head could only spectate from his home in Australia as his team attempted to regain their footing in the early stages of the ODI World Cup in India. A fractured left hand, sustained in the lead-up ODI series against South Africa, had sidelined him from joining his squad. Yet, the Australian selectors remained optimistic about his recovery, banking on his ability to join the action later and deliver when it counted the most.
That gamble proved spectacularly fruitful, as Head not only rejoined the team but etched his name in cricket history, becoming only the second male player to score a century in a run-chase in an ODI World Cup final. Following a brisk 48-ball 62 against South Africa in the semifinal, Head’s 137-run knock was the cornerstone of Australia’s pursuit, clinching their sixth ODI World Cup title. Australian captain Pat Cummins couldn’t hide his admiration for both Head and the team behind the scenes responsible for this win.
Cummins sung praises for the “unheralded few”: the selectors who stood by Head despite his injury, and the medical staff who nursed him back to health. The risk they took with Head was a resounding success, and Cummins expressed the team’s affection for the ‘legend’. His performance could be described as nothing less than a joy to watch.
In another strategic move, Cummins opted to chase in the final, breaking from the pattern established throughout the tournament where Australia had consistently set totals. The decision was based on a belief that batting conditions would improve as the match progressed. And indeed, Australia’s judgment paid off as they managed to restrict India to a modest score.
Cummins praised his team’s zeal and effort, especially on the field. Their agility on the slow wicket, which offered less turn than expected, was a highlight. Their bowling strategy along with resilient fielding managed to contain India to 240, a total Cummins felt confident about overcoming.
The Indian coach and captain acknowledged a shortfall in runs, while Cummins expressed relief at having restricted India to a total well below 300. However, that did not stop the initial pressure from India’s bowlers, who reduced Australia to 47 for 3 early in their chase. It was Head’s partnership with Marnus Labuschagne that steadied the ship, reflecting both players’ resolve and poise under pressure.
Cummins also reflected on the ‘real shift’ in Australia’s approach following early setbacks against India and South Africa. The batting lineup, especially the openers, took a more aggressive stance and maintained that approach for the remainder of the tournament. David Warner, with 535 runs at a strike rate of 108.30, and Head, with 329 runs at a strike rate of 127.51, were testament to this effective strategy.
The Australian team that lifted the World Cup trophy in Ahmedabad was markedly transformed from the one that had stumbled earlier in the tournament. They weren’t just confronting the top performers of the competition, but also the overwhelmingly partisan crowd of over 130,000 roaring Indian fans.
Cummins relished the moment, commenting on the unforgettable experience and the profound passion that Indian fans bring to the game. Despite the odds, Australia saved their best for last and witnessed key players stepping up to deliver.
Australia’s triumphant year was not limited to the World Cup victory; they also retained the Ashes and secured the World Test Championship. Cummins described the year as one that will be etched in the memories for years to come, a testament to a remarkable period in Australian cricket.