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Xtra Time Web Desk : In the highly anticipated World Test Championship clash at The Oval, Team India is set to take on Australia starting Wednesday. Over the past two WTC cycles, India has been the most consistent side, reaching the knockout phases of major white-ball tournaments in the last decade. However, despite their success, they have been unable to secure an ICC trophy since their victory in the 2013 Champions Trophy in England. This match promises to be an intriguing battle as both teams boast top performers.

One of the most captivating duels to watch out for will be between India's star batsman Virat Kohli and Australia's skipper and fast bowler Pat Cummins. Tom Moody, speaking on Star Sports, emphasized that Cummins poses a significant challenge for any batter, with his ability to make the ball move away and trouble the outside edge. His effective off-cutter adds to the threat, making this matchup a compelling one from Australia's perspective.

India's captain Rohit Sharma, seeking redemption after a lackluster performance in the IPL 2023, will face off against Australia's talented paceman Mitchell Starc. Moody believes that given the timing of this match in June in England, where the ball tends to assist bowlers due to overhead conditions and livelier pitches, Starc will have the upper hand. Despite Rohit's class as a world-class batter, Moody expects Starc to come out on top in this battle.

Another key showdown awaits between Australia's formidable batter Steve Smith and India's experienced pacer Mohammed Shami. Smith, known for his prowess in the longest format, will face the challenge of Shami's swing bowling in England, particularly in the early part of June. Moody anticipates that Shami will relish the opportunity to dismiss Smith early on, but acknowledges that if Smith comes in to bat at number four, the Australians will hope that Shami has bowled a few overs by then.

In summary, the India vs. Australia World Test Championship clash is set to deliver thrilling battles between some of the game's top performers. The showdowns between Virat Kohli and Pat Cummins, Rohit Sharma and Mitchell Starc, and Steve Smith and Mohammed Shami are particularly enticing, and fans can look forward to an intense contest at The Oval.