The second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship will culminate with an epic matchup between India and Australia, beginning on June 7 at London’s Oval. After defeating Australia 2-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at home, India qualified for the final with 58.8 percentage points, while Australia secured the top position on the points table for the 2021–23 cycle with 66.67 percentage points in 19 Test matches.
Pat Cummins, captain of Australia, has defended the team’s decision to forego warm-up matches prior to the World Test Championship final and the Ashes by emphasizing the demanding nature of the schedule. Since their tour of Pakistan a year ago, the Australians have implemented a no-tour-match policy. This strategy will be maintained during their crucial tour to England, which includes a WTC final against India from June 7–11 at The Oval and five Ashes Tests from June–July.
The captain vehemently refuted claims that the majority of the Australian team would be sluggish, having played little cricket since the series against India.
“Breaks are difficult to find. With six Test matches, including five in the Ashes, I have always maintained that it is preferable to be slightly underdone than excessive. I am speaking from the perspective of a bower. Therefore, I wish to be physically fit. At home, we engaged in extensive instruction. Pat Cummins stated on ICC that the team has trained vigorously, been revitalized, and is eager.
You must be aware of your opportunities to score a wicket. Pat Cummins
Cummins characterized the playing surface as resilient and bouncy and asserted that his team possesses sufficient bowlers to capitalize on the conditions.
“In order to press for wickets, you must know your moments. We need 20 wickets to win, so there is no sense in attempting everything in the first inning. We have an abundance of bowling balls for use at various times. Our team has not participated in too many of those 50 tests. Most of us have played in a few Ashes matches. Few individuals have achieved runs, and bowlers have exhibited velocity and bounce. So it should be nice,” the Australian captain added.
India
