WTC Final Day 5 Live: Scott Boland to start as Kohli-Rahane continue the run chase

The fifth and final day of the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final has arrived, and all possibilities remain open as the players take the field. The outcome of the first session will play a crucial role in shaping the day’s play. Ajinkya Rahane is set to face the first ball, with Scott Boland starting the proceedings for Australia. The stakes are high as India needs another 280 runs, while Australia requires 7 wickets to seal the victory.

This match brings back memories of dramatic finales between these two teams in Adelaide 2014 and Brisbane 2021. Virat Kohli, known for his relentless pursuit of victory, will lead India’s charge. However, the task at hand is immense. No team has successfully chased more than 418 in a fourth innings, and India’s target stands at a daunting 444.

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Yet, recent matches in England have shown that big scores can be chased down. India themselves witnessed England chase down 378 at Edgbaston last year. The evolving dynamics of the game, often attributed to the ‘Bazball’ effect, have brought about thrilling comebacks in recent times.