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'If They Take Off' - Ravi Shastri Warns India Ahead Of World Cup 2023 Final

Kashish Chadha

image-lp3t6qvcRavi Shastri (Twitter)

Ravi Shastri identified the potential deal-breaker for India and Australia in the ICC World Cup 2023 by stating the "first 10 overs" could play a decisive role in determining the end outcome of the much-anticipated final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (November 19). 

The former India head coach put the onus on contemporary skipper Rohit Sharma and his aggressive top-order streak to help India withstand the mighty Australian pace battery in the crucial first powerplay of the innings. 

Just as same, the veteran commentator felt the fast-bowling trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami and Mohammed Siraj will have to build early inroads against in-form Aussie openers David Warner and Travis Head. 



For either side, Shastri pressed home that the first 10 overs could be vital in establishing their strong footing and grip in the ultimate contest set to be watched by a jam-packed 1,30,000-seated crowd in Motera Stadium and a humongous global audience on television and live-streaming platforms. 

Ravi Shastri Says 'First 10 Overs' Critical To IND-AUS Final 

Speaking to the Times of India in an interview, Shastri also felt pleased with his prediction of an India-Australia final coming true. The former India allrounder had prophesied during the two teams' campaign opening game in Chennai that the five-time champions will play a rematch for World Cup supremacy in Ahmedabad against the two-time winners. 

"When India played Australia in Chennai on October 8, I said this is the dress rehearsal of the final. That happened a month-and-a-half ago and it has come true."


"I genuinely believe that India and Australia were the two teams who had it in them to make it to the final. India will start as the favourites, with the way they are playing."


"I think that the first 10 overs are very crucial. India have got some great starts, especially with the way Rohit has exploded at the top. That makes a difference. Similarly with Australia, if they take off, that will give them a lot of confidence. David Warner, Travis Head and Mitchell Marsh are dangerous players," he added.