Mitchell Starc, Australia’s pace spearhead, expressed excitement and acknowledged the challenge of facing the undefeated Indian team in the highly anticipated 2023 World Cup final. Admitting that confronting India presents a daunting test, the 33-year-old acknowledged India’s dominant form throughout the tournament.

India’s impeccable run in the tournament, securing nine victories in the group stage and a convincing win against New Zealand in the semi-finals, has solidified their position as the team to beat. Starc, at a press conference post-Australia’s semi-final win over South Africa, reflected on the surreal occasion of facing India once more after their earlier encounter in the tournament.

“That’s what World Cups are about. You want to take on the best throughout, and we certainly come up against a team that has obviously led from the front through the tournament and they’re undefeated,” Starc remarked, emphasizing the thrill of competing against the tournament’s best team in the final.

Recalling their earlier encounter, where India triumphed over Australia in Chennai, Starc acknowledged the challenge posed by the hosts. Despite Australia’s previous loss, he relished the opportunity to face India again in the ultimate clash.

Reflecting on his performance against South Africa, Starc expressed satisfaction in picking up crucial wickets during the powerplay phase, highlighting its significance in setting the tone for their semi-final win.

“It’s probably not been the tournament I would have liked from the get-go, but it’s nice to step up in a big game. And I think our powerplay was probably what got us on our way,” Starc commented, acknowledging the importance of their performance in crucial moments.

As the final showdown draws near, scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on Sunday, Starc anticipates a fierce battle against India, relishing the prospect of concluding the World Cup with a monumental clash against the tournament favorites.