Former Australia limited-overs’ captain Aaron Finch has reckoned that the key to handle talismanic batters like Virat Kohli and Steve Smith would be to get them out as early as possible in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final between India and Australia, set to begin at The Oval from June 7-11.
Kohli found his groove in Test cricket with a fantastic 186 in the fourth match against Australia at Ahmedabad in March while Smith has an excellent record at The Oval, scoring 391 runs in three matches at an average of 97.75 with two centuries.
“Both (Kohli and Smith are) batting at number four, so the key is to try and get them as early as possible, early wickets to expose them to the brand new ball will be absolutely key. I will always side with Steve Smith, I think his record is outstanding, but it will be a very good contest,” Finch was quoted as saying by Star Sports.
Notably, the showpiece event — 2023 WTC final — will also mark the first time when Australia and India play a game of Test cricket at a neutral venue and both the sides will be hoping to bring the coveted mace home.
Meanwhile, India will also be appearing in the WTC final for the second straight time after losing to New Zealand by eight wickets in the finale of the inaugural edition of the tournament at Southampton in 2021.
“I think the rivalry is held in such high regard in both countries, that I think it brings out the best in both teams. Obviously, India has had the better of Australia in the last three series I think, so both teams will rise to the occasion no matter where it’s played, at home or away or this time at neutral territory. It’s just a must watch thing,” added Finch.
While Australia have won just seven Test matches out of the 38 they have played at The Oval, India have managed just two victories out of 14 times they have played at the historic venue in London.