WTC Final 2023: First look at the Oval wicket
Xtra Time Web Desk: With just 21 days to go for the much-anticipated ICC World Test Championships Final 2023 between India and Australia, the first pic of the Oval wicket surfaced on the social media. At the first sight, no one can differentiate between the square and outfield.
There is still considerable time left for the WTC Final to be played at the Oval from June 7-11. It is epected to be a sporting wicket with a lot of mowing as the final approaches.
Obviously, there will be a few eyebrows raised looking at wicket especially the batters of both sides. The fast bowlers will relish such conditions as the wicket will offer bounce, swing and carry. The 22 yards does looks like it will favour the pacers from both sides.
While Team India will boast of Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav (if fit), Shardul Thakur and Jaydev Unadkat, Australia will have the likes of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazzlewood and Scot Boland.
The Indian team will be without Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur are both carrying niggles. Jaydev Unadkat is at the National Cricket Academy, undergoing his rehab after he was involved in a freakish injury while bowling at the nets during IPL 2023.
The wicket at the Oval will surely give some sleepless nights to the Indian team management in the lead up to the WTC Final 2023.
