November 19, (THEWILL) – Australian opener, Travis Head, etched his name into cricketing folklore on Sunday, scoring a magnificent century, to lead his country to a shock six-wicket win over hosts, India, in the T20 World Cup final. Head’s unbeaten 137 off just 120 balls helped Australia chase down India’s total of 240, sealing a famous win in front of a stunned 120,000 strong crowd at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
India had entered the final as overwhelming favorites, having won all 10 of their previous matches in the tournament. However, Australian captain Pat Cummins’ decision to bowl first paid dividends, restricting the hosts to 240. Paceman Mitchell Starc claimed the key wickets of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, finishing with figures of 3-55.
In reply, Head dominated the Indian attack, smashing 15 fours and 4 sixes in a player-of-the-match performance. He was ably supported by Marnus Labuschagne, who ground out a crucial 58. Their 192-run partnership for the fourth wicket proved decisive after Australia had slipped to 47-3 early in their chase.
For India, KL Rahul top-scored with 66 but lacked support after Virat Kohli fell for 54. The hosts seemed destined for victory after dismissing David Warner, Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith cheaply at the start of Australia’s innings. However, Head’s brilliant century stealthily stole the win from under their noses.
The win marks a famous World Cup triumph for Australia, who defeated the tournament favourites in their own backyard. Head achieves a unique treble, having been player-of-the-match in the World Test Championship final and semi-finals earlier this year. His 137 sees him join an elite club of only six other players to have scored a century in a World Cup final.
