Australia Dominates Day 1 With Smith And Head's Explosive Partnership Puts Them In Command At WTC Final

In a gripping showdown at The Oval, Pat Cummins' Australian team showcased their dominance over India in the World Test Championship Final. The first day of play witnessed a spectacular partnership between Travis Head and Steve Smith, catapulting Australia into a commanding position.

Opting to bowl first on what appeared to be a bowler-friendly track, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma faced criticism for leaving out Ravichandran Ashwin in favor of Shardul Thakur.

Although Ashwin's absence puzzled some, it was Mohammed Siraj who made an impact early on, dismissing Usman Khawaja for a duck in just his second over.

Despite the early setback, Australia fought back tenaciously in the first session. However, their progress was halted when David Warner fell to a dismissive stroke moment before Lunch, giving India a glimmer of hope.

The second session began even better for India, with Mohammed Shami delivering a stunning delivery to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne on the first ball after Lunch.

With India gaining momentum, the stage was set for Travis Head to seize control. The explosive batsman unleashed a relentless assault on the Indian pacers, while Steve Smith anchored the innings with his trademark style.

Head's scintillating century, his first away from home and against India, propelled Australia to a formidable position.

The Indian bowlers struggled to find an answer to the dynamic duo as they constructed an outstanding 251-run partnership for the fourth wicket. The floodgates opened towards the end of the day when India finally had access to the second new ball.

Despite the late movement, Head and Smith remained unbeaten at the crease, with Smith nearing yet another Test century.

Day 1 of the WTC 2023 Final belonged entirely to Australia, with Smith and Head leading the charge and propelling their team to an imposing total of 327/3. The momentum now firmly rests in Australia's favor as they continue their quest for glory in the championship.

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