NEW DELHI: As the cricketing world gears up for the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, former Australian fast-bowler Jason Gillespie, a key member of the 2003 World Cup-winning team, believes that Australia is hitting its stride at the perfect moment. Gillespie expressed his views ahead of the highly anticipated final against India, scheduled for Sunday afternoon.
Australia, five-time World Cup champions, have had a remarkable journey in the current edition, overcoming initial setbacks against South Africa and India.The team, led byPat Cummins, enters the final on the back of an impressive eight-match unbeaten streak.

Gillespie, drawing from his experience as a World Cup winner, shared his insights, saying, “Australia are peaking at the right time. India, whilst favourites, have all the expectation on them. They will be nervous. All the expectation is on India. It’s their World Cup to lose.”

The veteran fast-bowler emphasised the significance of the upcoming final for Australia, stating, “This would mean the world to Australia – no one has really given Australia a chance to win this World Cup.”

Reflecting on Australia’s stellar 2023 campaign, which included victories in the World Test Championship final and retaining the Ashes, Gillespie sees the World Cup title as the icing on the cake for Cummins & Co.
Gillespie pointed to the pivotal role of Australia’s pace duo, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, in the semi-final against South Africa. He expressed confidence that Australia can replicate that performance in the final against India, particularly emphasising the importance of the first 10 overs.

The former cricketer’s insights provide an intriguing perspective on the final, setting the stage for a thrilling clash between two cricketing giants. As Australia seek an unprecedented sixth World Cup title, the pressure is on India, the favourites according to Gillespie, making it a showdown where the stakes are high and the excitement palpable.
(With inputs from IANS)