Cricket World Cup: Australia’s Hopes Hanging by a Thread After Defeat to Dominant India
Published: June 24, 2024, 22:34 BST | Updated: June 25, 2024, 01:51 BST
Australia’s dreams of Twenty20 World Cup glory are in jeopardy following a 24-run loss to a ruthless India side in St Lucia. The defeat could also signal the end of veteran opener David Warner’s international career.
In a display of sheer batting prowess, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma blasted 92 runs from just 41 deliveries, including 8 sixes and 7 fours, to propel his team to a formidable 205/5. Despite a valiant 76-run knock from Travis Head, Australia could only manage 181/7 in reply, leaving their World Cup hopes hanging by a thread.
The result means Australia’s tournament will be over if Afghanistan defeat Bangladesh later on Tuesday (AEDT). A Bangladesh win would likely see Australia progress to the semi-finals, but only if the Tigers’ victory margin is not too large.
“It’s disappointing. We’re still technically a chance to go through to the semis, but today, India got the better of us. Ultimately, they were the better team,” acknowledged Aussie captain Mitchell Marsh.
In a brutal onslaught, Rohit’s brutal 19-ball half-century marked the fastest ever against Australia, setting the tone for India’s dominance. Only Josh Hazlewood managed to contain the hosts, while Mitchell Starc and the rest of the Australian bowlers struggled to find their rhythm.
The loss could spell the end of David Warner’s international career, as the veteran opener was dismissed for just 6 in the chase. Mitch Marsh and Glenn Maxwell offered glimmers of hope, but ultimately, Head’s heroics were not enough to overcome India’s clinical performance.
With their World Cup fate hanging in the balance, the Australians will be hoping for a favorable result in the Bangladesh-Afghanistan clash. As the tournament reaches its climax, the 100-ball cricket schedule and the prospect of a backyard cricket-style finale in Chester le Street only adds to the excitement for fans of the sport.
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