Veteran Indian batsman Suresh Raina recounted his stand-winning partnership with all-rounder Yuvraj Singh during Australia vs. India in the 2011 Cricket World Cup. India is now preparing to play Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which will take place on Sunday, November 19, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
India beat Australia at Motera Stadium in 2011, thanks to some incredible batting performances from Raina (34*) and Yuvraj (57*). As the final approached, Raina reflected on his chat with Sachin Tendulkar prior to batting and the atmosphere on the field during their undefeated 74-run stand.
The Australian team of 2011 under Ricky Ponting’s leadership was formidable; they possessed all the necessary abilities in sledging, bowling, and fielding. I still clearly recall that when Dhoni, Sachin, and Gautam were removed, it was my turn to bat. I was in the locker room with Paji (Sachin), and he gave me the order to go finish the match. I was able to form a cooperation with Yuvraj. Rediff.com cited Raina as stating, “Even though we didn’t need a lot of runs to win, we still had pressure to win, but we also had to play aggressive cricket.”
He said that trying to chase a 26-run mark became more difficult since Australia started sledging in an attempt to throw both batsmen off-balance.
“I remember they (the Australian players) sledged us many times, and even Brad Haddin came in front of me while I took a run, but we kept calm and focused,” he said.
One group that enjoys playing in semifinals and finals is Australia. Suresh Raina
There have been many exciting matches between Australia and India over the years, but this Sunday’s match will be the first time in 20 years that the two teams face off in the 50-over World Cup final. Ahead of this crucial match, Raina praised Australia’s mentality, highlighting how their strategy makes them a strong team, especially in the championship. However, he continued, India presents a serious threat this time around, displaying strength in both batting and bowling, and their strong fielding is an added bonus.
“Australia is a squad that enjoys playing in semifinals and finals and is known for playing big games because of their superior skill. Given their strong mentality and the fact that they have two victories in a row and a double century from Maxwell, we cannot underestimate them. However, the Indian team is really dangerous this time in both batting and bowling, and their solid fielding is the cherry on top, so I’m sure there will be plenty of fun during the match on the 19th,” the 36-year-old said.
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