Top players who can make a difference in ODI World Cup 2023 final between India vs Australia

A rematch for the ages is set to unfold as India and Australia, the two cricketing powerhouses, prepare to clash in the highly anticipated final of the ODI World Cup 2023 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Two decades have passed since these cricketing giants last faced off in a World Cup final, and the dynamics of the game have transformed considerably. In 2003, Australia was a powerhouse in the cricketing circle, while India stood as an emerging force. Today, the roles have reversed, with India firmly established as the world's top-ranked team and Australia entering into the finals as the second favourite.

While Australia's unbeaten streak of 10 matches leading into the 2003 final instilled fear in their opponents, India, having won all 10 of their matches in the current tournament, enters this final with a similar aura of invincibility. However, cricket is a game of unpredictable twists and turns, and the outcome of this clash will hinge on the team that performs better on the day.

The massive 1,30,000-strong crowd at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium is sure to create an electrifying atmosphere, testing the players' physical and mental fortitude.

Players to Watch Out For

India

1. Shubhman Gill: The young Indian sensation boasts an impressive track record in Ahmedabad and has maintained exceptional form over the past year. Shubhman Gill's recent performance in the series against Australia was commendable, securing both a century and a half-century in the two matches he played in the series against Australia.

2. Ravindra Jadeja: When the pitch offers favourable spin conditions, Ravindra Jadeja's exceptional accuracy and control make him a formidable force, capable of significantly impacting the outcome of the finals.

It is like a home ground for Ravindra Jadeja and given his all-round abilities in all facets of the game he can change the course of the game with any of his abilities.

3. Virat Kohli: Excluding Virat Kohli from the favourite list against Australia, especially on such a grand stage and considering his exceptional run-scoring form throughout the tournament, would be a grave error. His presence in the team is indispensable and is playing some of his best cricket at the moment

4. Jasprit Bumrah: Since Bumrah made his comeback after the back injury he has been exceptional and in this World Cup he has been India’s backbone. He has been a miser with the new ball and in a World Cup where runs have been churned out heavily Bumrah has been exceptional with the ball.

 He has a brilliant slower bowl and on this Ahmedabad wicket, his slower balls can fox the batters like they did against Pakistan.

Australia

1. Travis Head: Travis Head stands out as one of Australia's most impactful players, particularly during the powerplay, where his aggressive batting skills pose a significant threat to the opposition. His bowling ability further enhances his versatility, making him a valuable asset to the team. In the recent World Test Championship Head was the main difference between both the teams and India would be vary of his batting prowess. 

2.  Adam Zampa: In recent years, he has been one of the most successful spinners against Australia, and on the Ahmedabad wicket he could play an important role for the Australian team. He has been Australia’s leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets in the 10 matches he has played so far.

3. Mitchell Marsh: Marsh's batting prowess has been instrumental in Australia's campaign, as he has consistently delivered valuable knocks, including two centuries and one half-century. 

 His highest score of 177 not out stands as a testament to his ability to anchor the innings and guide his team to victory. In the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Mitchell Marsh has amassed 426 runs across nine matches with an impressive average of 53.25 and a formidable strike rate of 107.85.