According to former Australia captain Ian Chappell, the upcoming Men’s ODI World Cup final at the Narendra Modi Stadium will likely pivot on Glenn Maxwell's bowling prowess, particularly if the Indian batsmen manage to handle leg-spinner Adam Zampa effectively.
Zampa, the tournament's second-highest wicket-taker with 22 scalps at an average of 21.40 and an economy rate of 5.47, poses a significant threat. Maxwell, with an economy rate of 4.72 and a stunning 4-40 performance against India in September, is seen as crucial in this final showdown.
Chappell expressed, "The Indians play spin pretty well and I think if they play sensibly they'll probably handle Zampa pretty well, which means that Maxwell's going to have to bowl really well. I think Maxwell's bowling has been very good so far, but he's got to maintain that level against India. I think if the Indians get on top of Zampa, that'll mean that Maxwell's going to have to bowl really well."
Highlighting Maxwell’s part-time off-spin, Chappell emphasized the strategic approach Maxwell applies to his bowling, suggesting its potential significance in the final. "I think that's a big part of his bowling, the thought that he's put into it. So he could be crucial, particularly if the Indians get hold of Zampa; they're going to really need something from Maxwell down the other end."
In the realm of fast-bowling, Chappell identified Josh Hazlewood as Australia's standout pacer in the tournament, capturing 14 wickets at an average of 27.78 and an economy rate of 4.67. While Mitchell Starc claimed 13 wickets at an average of 36.38 and an economy rate of 6.14, captain Pat Cummins secured 13 wickets, averaging 37 with an economy rate of 6.05.
"Australia's strength is their pace bowling. So if you get the best out of Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood, that's a very good start. If you get good bowling out of Zampa, that'll be a bonus," concluded Chappell, underlining the significance of Australia's pace battery in the upcoming final.
(With Agency Inputs)
