India crashes out of World Test Championship final after defeat in Sydney

Sydney: India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final came to an end following a six-wicket loss to Australia in the Sydney Test. With this victory, Australia clinched the five-Test series 3-1, reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after a decade.

Australia will now face South Africa in the WTC final at Lord’s, scheduled from June 11 to 15.

Set a modest target of 162 runs on the third day, Australia secured the win in just 27 overs, losing four wickets. Usman Khawaja contributed 41 runs, while Travis Head (34*) and Beau Webster (39*) remained unbeaten. For India, Prasidh Krishna took three wickets, and Mohammed Siraj claimed one.

India’s batting faltered earlier in the day, starting at 141/6 and adding only 16 runs before being dismissed for 157 in their second innings. Rishabh Pant top-scored with 61 runs. Australia’s Scott Boland delivered a stellar performance, taking 6/45, while skipper Pat Cummins and Webster picked up three and one wicket, respectively.

Australia’s comprehensive win marks a significant milestone as they gear up for the WTC final later this year.