India set WCL 2024 final with Pakistan after beating Australia in semis
1. India dominated the Aussies in the semi-final, both with the ball and the bat
In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, India Champions dealt a resounding 86-run defeat to Australia Champions in the second semi-final of the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2024 at Northampton's County Ground on Friday night.
India's stellar performance both with bat and ball saw them dominate proceedings from the outset. After being asked to bat first, Robin Uthappa set the stage with a brilliant 65 off 35 balls, supported by 10 boundaries. Captain Yuvraj Singh continued the onslaught with a brisk 59 off just 28 deliveries before falling to Peter Siddle.
The Pathan brothers, Irfan and Yousuf, then took charge, forging a crucial 95-run partnership. Irfan blasted a quickfire 50 off 19 balls, while Yousuf contributed 51 off 23 balls. Their efforts propelled India to a formidable total of 255 runs.
Australia's chase faltered early as they struggled to contend with the Indian bowling attack. Key batsmen like Shaun Marsh, Aaron Finch, and others fell cheaply, leaving them reeling. Despite efforts from Callum Ferguson and others, Australia could only manage 168-7 in their allotted overs.
Peter Siddle was the standout bowler for Australia, claiming four wickets, while Nathan Coulter-Nile and Xavier Doherty chipped in with one wicket each.
With this victory, India secures their place in the final against Pakistan, slated to take place at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Saturday. Cricket fans can expect an electrifying contest as these two cricketing giants vie for the prestigious WCL 2024 title.
