Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood is optimistic about the pitch conditions for the Cricket World Cup final against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. After playing a crucial role in Australia’s semi-final victory over South Africa, Hazlewood believes the pitch will offer something for everyone. In the semi-final, he dismissed Quinton de Kock and Rassie van der Dussen, helping Australia restrict South Africa to a below-par total of 212. Australia chased down the target comfortably with 16 balls to spare. Hazlewood pointed out that the pitch in Ahmedabad is likely to be similar to the one they played on against England earlier in the tournament, where it offered assistance to both spinners and seamers.
Hazlewood praised India for ticking all the boxes so far in the tournament but also highlighted that Australia has the ability to exploit any weaknesses, just as they did when they faced India previously. He mentioned the cracks in India’s batting lineup that they were able to exploit during their match in Chennai, where Australia successfully defended a small total by taking early wickets. However, he acknowledged that India is a strong team with quality fast bowlers, spinners, and batsmen.
India and Australia faced each other during the group stage last month, with India emerging victorious. However, Australia has since turned their form around and won eight consecutive matches to reach the final.
Overall, Hazlewood is optimistic about the pitch conditions in Ahmedabad and believes that his team has the capability to perform well against a strong Indian side.
