India entered the World Cup 2023 as hosts, fielding what many considered their strongest ODI XI in history. Their dominance was unquestionable—they had cruised to victory in every match, topping all the key metrics. They boasted the tournament’s leading run-scorer, the highest wicket-taker, and unmatched batting and bowling averages and strike rates.
Australia, on the other hand, had endured a rocky journey. After losing their first two games, they barely managed to secure a place in the knockout stages, scraping through with narrow victories. Pundits were quick to dismiss their chances, confidently predicting an easy Indian triumph in the final.
The stage was set with over 100,000 spectators packed into the stadium. Among them were politicians, billionaires, cricketing legends, and even airborne displays, all prepared to witness what was anticipated to be the crowning glory of Indian cricket.
But as Pat Cummins stood before the expectant crowd, he simply remarked, "In sports, there's no greater thrill than silencing a roaring stadium."