In the recent past, Australia's approach to chasing targets above 300 had been cautious. Rarely did they cross this formidable threshold, creating a perception of aversion to high-scoring chases. This trend raised questions about the team's ability to adapt to the evolving dynamics of limited-overs cricket.
But Mitchell Marsh has not only shattered this perception but did so in a manner that left cricket enthusiasts in awe. Batting at No.3, Marsh played an innings for the ages, scoring an unbeaten 177 off just 136 balls. His innings was not only brutal, featuring 17 fours and nine sixes, but also marked a personal milestone - his highest ODI score and the first century at first drop.
The batting order had undergone a strategic revamp, with Steven Smith anchoring the innings at No.4. The duo orchestrated a formidable 175-run partnership, guiding Australia to their seventh straight win of the tournament. This rejigged line-up finally clicked, showcasing the depth and adaptability of the Australian batting order.
Bangladesh's Bowling woes continue
On the opposing side, Bangladesh's bowling attack struggled to contain the Australian onslaught. The toothless attack found little assistance from the Pune batting strip, and the bowlers were left defending a below-par total. Challenges compounded for Bangladesh as their batters failed to capitalize on a promising platform, managing just 306 for 8.
While Towhid Hridoy displayed resilience with his highest World Cup score of 74, the lack of substantial contributions from other batters hindered Bangladesh's prospects. Adam Zampa, with his masterclass in middle overs bowling, further solidified his position as a key spinner, tallying 22 World Cup wickets. Marnus Labuschagne, with two outstanding run-outs, continued to prove his worth to the Australian team.
Despite the loss, Bangladesh found solace in avoiding damage to their net run-rate, likely securing a spot in the Champions Trophy unless the Netherlands spring a surprise against India. For Australia, this victory had broader implications, as it showcased the team's ability to adapt and succeed under pressure.
The five-time World Champions recent form has got the Cricket fans going and they expressed their views on “X” formerly Twitter. Some of the responses from the fans are:
Mitchell Marsh take a bow. What an innings. What a chase. We have some cracking semi finals coming up.#AUSvsBAN#icccricketworldcup2023pic.twitter.com/2ME959dSKL
— Mustafa Masood Qureshi (@mustafamasood23) November 11, 2023
Mitchell Marsh,you absolute BEAST !! 177 NOT OUT with a SR of 134 🔥 (17 fours & 9 sixes) he made the chase of 307,a piece of cake !
— ishaan (@ixxcric) November 11, 2023
Recently his grandfather passed away & he has come out w a strong performance 🤝🏻 much respect & power to him ✨️#AUSvsBAN |#MitchellMarsh pic.twitter.com/78vi9tfUGm
7 wins in a row for Australia at this World Cup after their 8 wicket victory over Bangladesh #CWC23 #AUSvsBAN pic.twitter.com/hbeNznDAuE
— Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) November 11, 2023
ODI hundred in World Cup
— Ash (@Ashsay_) November 11, 2023
- Mitchell Marsh 2 ( ODI Rank 49 )
- Babar 0 ( ODI Rank 2 )#PAKvsENG #AUSvsBAN #CWC23 pic.twitter.com/BtsLXClI0H
201* by Glenn Maxwell vs Afghanistan and 177* by Mitchell Marsh vs Bangladesh.
— Utsav 💔 (@utsav__45) November 11, 2023
Australia is ready for semifinal!! #AUSvsBAN pic.twitter.com/Mj7H5TYsHd
Australia decimated Bangladesh at the Pune!
— paRaY_YasiR ✍️ (@ParayYasir2) November 11, 2023
Chasing 307 in Just 44.4 overs!!!! for the loss of 2 wickets!!!
Marsh's mammoth 177(132) literally outplayed them.
See you on 16th of November!#AUSvsBAN #ICCCricketWorldCup23 #ICCCricketWorldCup #CricketTwitter #ICCWorldCup pic.twitter.com/XS5aenr8N5