Back in May 2023, Mitchell Marsh had put forth his prediction for the World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia on November 19 in Ahmedabad.

While speaking on a podcast hosted by his IPL franchise, Delhi Capitals (DC), Marsh had predicted that Australia would defeat India by 385 runs in the final of the World Cup 2023.

Although the prediction was almost certainly in jest, Australia’s tally of claiming the silverware a record five times (in 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2015) makes formidable reading.

Marsh, who has been in terrific form with the bat lately, has scored 426 runs at an average of 53.25 while striking at astonishing 108. He foretold that Australia would put 450-2 before skittling out India for a paltry 65.

“Australia will stay undefeated, defeating India in the final, Australia 450-2 in the final, India all out 65,” Marsh said on the DC podcast.

Although the predictions of both teams facing each other in the final came true, India – and not Australia – are the only undefeated side in the World Cup with ten wins from ten matches including a semi-final victory against New Zealand.

On the other hand, Australia stuttered early with losses to India and South Africa but cruised after that, winning seven straight group games and a close semi-final against South Africa. They will now face India in a World Cup final for the second time, twenty years after Ricky Ponting had led them to victory.

In 2003, Ponting’s 121-ball 140 not out, aided by Damien Martyn’s unbeaten 84-ball 88, propelled Australia to 359-2. India stood no chance in front of the daunting target, getting cleaned up for 234 runs in 39.2 overs with Virender Sehwag (82 off 81) as the lone bright spot.

At this World Cup, India will look to avenge that loss and end their 10-year trophyless streak in ICC tournaments.

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