The wait is nearly over as India and Australia are all set to face off in the World Test Championship Final 2023, which will begin on June 7. This ultimate showdown will unfold at Kennington Oval in London and is expected to deliver an enthralling clash between the two leading Test cricket teams.
Rohit Sharma-led India secured their spot in the WTC Final for the second time in a row after a triumphant 2-1 home series victory against Pat Cummins-led Australia. Meanwhile, Australia also earned their place in the ultimate test by finishing at the top of the WTC Points table during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023 earlier this year.
India won the last time they played at The Oval in London while Australia lost in their previous match at the same venue. Australia and India finished as the top two teams in the ICC World Test Championship points table. The two sides will now battle at a neutral venue, where a new WTC trophy winner will be decided. Here in this article, we have covered everything you need to know about the Kennington Oval London pitch report for India vs Australia Test.
WTC Final 2023: Kennington Oval, London, Pitch Report
Over the years, The Oval has been known for its wickets that offer significant bounce. Fast bowlers have always relished the opportunity to bowl in England. As the match progresses into day three and beyond, the pitch provides support for both spin bowlers and fast bowlers. Additionally, favorable weather conditions contribute to the advantage swing bowlers enjoy.
Recent pictures of the pitch at The Oval have gone viral on the internet, revealing a green top. Batsmen are expected to face challenges while the seamers will undoubtedly revel in bowling on such a surface. An overcast morning can be particularly daunting for a batsman, making it a bowlers’ paradise.
However, since this is the first Test to be played at The Oval in June, both teams might be exploring ways to exploit the spin element. As the English summer begins in June, spinners could play a game-changing role after the third day. Australia might opt for one spinner and strengthen their pace attack, while India is likely to field two spinners, taking advantage of the conditions.
Also Read: World Test Championship Final India vs Australia: Weather Report for WTC Final Match
WTC Final 2023: Kennington Oval, London Test Stats and Records
Across 104 matches at this venue, pace bowlers have amassed a total of 1930 wickets at an average of 30.60, while spinners have claimed 892 wickets at an average of 34.26. The fast bowlers have certainly thrived at this venue. In terms of outcomes, teams batting first have emerged victorious in 38 matches, teams batting second have won 29 matches, and 37 matches have ended in draws.
WTC Final 2023: India and Australia Playing Record at the Kennington Oval, London
India has played 14 Test matches at this venue, winning two, losing three and drawing seven of them. The last time India played at The Oval, it won by 157 runs against England in 2021.
Australia has played 34 matches at this venue, winning seven, losing 17, and drawn 14 of them. The last time Australia played at The Oval, they lost by 137 runs against England in 2019.