The final take

ODI World Cup: Former Pakistan skipper and legendary left-arm fast-bowler Wasim Akram believes India should have stuck to what had been working for them instead of changing the opening bowling template for the final of 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, where they ended up on the losing side.

In the final on November 19, India captain Rohit Sharma decided to give the new ball to Mohammed Shami instead of Mohammed Siraj in defence of 241 against Australia. It worked well as Shami and Jasprit Bumrah took three wickets collectively, before Travis Head slammed a superb 137 and Marnus Labuschagne made 58 not out to take Australia over the line.

“If you ask me, I found Siraj to be bowling really well throughout the World Cup, though his wickets column may not suggest that, but the break throughs he gave in Asia Cup and his recent performances have established him as the future of Indian cricket. In this match they straight away brought in Shami and he did have impact on the game right away by getting Warner out, though it was more like Warner got himself out by slashing at a wide ball.”