বাংলায় পড়ুন
Despite a valiant effort in the semifinals, South Africa couldn't secure a spot in the World Cup final after a 20-year hiatus. Meanwhile, Australia, with a record eighth final appearance, clinched the ticket to face India in a highly anticipated showdown.
In a nail-biting semifinal clash, despite a valiant effort, South Africa fell short, allowing Australia to secure the final ticket. While India's impressive journey to the final, winning all ten matches, has captivated fans, Australia's resilience, overcoming early setbacks, sets the stage for an epic World Cup showdown.
The semifinals unfolded with intensity, marked by Rohit Sharma's team securing their place in the final after a fierce battle against New Zealand. The first semifinal witnessed a partnership between Daryl Mitchell and Ken Williamson, posing a challenge for Rohit's men. However, India's victory seemed inevitable, as they claimed the coveted final ticket on the first day of the match.
On the following day, Australia faced off against South Africa in a showdown reminiscent of Kolkata's historic cricket encounters. Despite Australia's strong start, posting eight consecutive wins, their dream was nearly shattered when South Africa dismissed them for 212 runs. The duel between Australia's openers, David Warner and Travis Head, provided early excitement, but South Africa's bowlers turned the tide, restricting Australia to 77 runs with five wickets down. The match culminated in a fierce battle, but South Africa couldn't secure the win.
This World Cup has witnessed twists of fate, reminiscent of the tournaments in 1992, 1999, 2007, and 2015. In 2023, despite South Africa's spirited semifinal performance, they missed the final berth once again. On the flip side, Australia's eighth entry into the final sets a new record.
As the final approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Proteas captain Temba Bavuma's decision to bat first, despite concerns about the weather, raises eyebrows. However, his gamble doesn't pay off as the Proteas struggle to post a mere 213 runs. The responsibility then shifts to the Proteas' bowlers, but their efforts fall short against Australia's determined lineup.
In the midst of disappointment, a resounding voice emerges from the crowd, expressing a clear desire for an Australia-India final. The echo of changing fortunes resonates, echoing the sentiments of the 2003 World Cup final, where Sourav Ganguly's team seeks redemption for a 20-year-old loss.
Having overcome the defeat against New Zealand in 2019, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's team is now poised to face Australia, aiming to rewrite history. The entire world awaits eagerly for the grand finale on Sunday, anticipating whether India can clinch the title and bring the trophy home.
