Following India’s disappointing loss to Australia in the ICC World Cup 2023 final, star batter David Warner has echoed the sentiments of former cricketers Gautam Gambhir and Mohammad Kaif, highlighting the crucial role of performing under pressure on the biggest stage. While India entered the final as favorites, their performance on the night was far from their usual dominance, handing Australia a comfortable victory.

India’s unbeaten run in the league stage and a convincing win over New Zealand in the semi-final had instilled confidence in the team and their supporters. However, the pressure of the final proved too much to handle as they fell short in all departments of the game.

Australia, on the other hand, stepped up when it mattered most, demonstrating their ability to rise to the occasion. Their fielding was exceptional, putting constant pressure on the Indian batsmen, while their bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins, restricted India to a below-par total.

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Warner, responding to Kaif’s comments questioning the legitimacy of Australia’s victory, emphasized the importance of delivering when it matters most. “I like MK, issue is it does not matter what’s on paper. At the end of the day you need to perform when it matters. That’s why they call it a final. That’s the day that counts and it can go either way, that’s sports. 2027 here we come,” David Warner stated.

I like MK, issue is it does not matter what’s on paper. At the end of the day you need to perform when it matters. That’s why they call it a final. That’s the day that counts and it can go either way, that’s sports. 2027 here we come 👍 https://t.co/DBDOCagG2r

— David Warner (@davidwarner31) November 22, 2023

Kaif, who was part of India’s 2003 World Cup-winning team, had expressed his disbelief that the “best team” didn’t win the tournament. However, both Gambhir and Warner challenged this notion, asserting that the team that performs on the day is the one that deserves the title of champions.

“I will tell you very clearly. A lot of people might not like it. I heard some of the experts saying that the best team did not go on to win the World Cup. That’s absolutely not true. That’s one of the most bizarre statements that I have heard,” Gautam Gambhir stated.

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Australia’s chase of India’s 241-run target was a testament to their composure under pressure. Despite losing early wickets, Travis Head’s scintillating 137 off 120 balls took the game away from India, securing Australia’s sixth World Cup title.

The contrasting performances of India and Australia in the World Cup final serve as a reminder that even the best teams can falter under pressure. While India’s dominance throughout the tournament was undeniable, their inability to deliver on the biggest stage highlights the importance of mental fortitude and the ability to perform when it matters most.