World Cup 2023: Travis Head scripts history with Player of the Match award in semi-final and final

Australia’s Travis Head reached a remarkable milestone after he was named the Player of the Match in the World Cup final against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Head notched a sublime century to guide his side to World Cup triumph and the southpaw was, quite rightfully, awarded the Player of the Match award.

With this, he became just the fourth cricketer in the history of the World Cup to win Player of the Match awards in both semi-final and final. Head was previously adjudged Player of the Match for his terrific all-round prowess against South Africa in the semis.

Previously, legendary cricketers like India’s Mohinder Amarnath (1983), former Sri Lanka batter Aravinda de Silva (1996) and Aussie spin great Shane Warne (1999) achieved this feat.

Bowling five overs against the Proteas in the World Cup 2023 semi-finals, Travis Head had snared two wickets conceding just 21 runs.

Travis Head opened the innings with David Warner and pulled off a valiant half century. Head played a valuable knock of 62 off 48 balls to earn a thrilling three-wicket victory for Australia.

In the final against hosts India, Travis Head did get a chance to roll his arms but could not claim a wicket having bowled two overs. Head did leave an indelible mark on the field with a stunning catch to dismiss India skipper Rohit Sharma. While running back from cover region, Head dived backward to complete a mind-boggling catch. The dismissal was absolutely precious in the context of the game as skipper Rohit appeared to be in fine touch with the bat.

Later, during the run chase, Travis Head notched a magnificent century to earn a memorable win for his side. Having lost three wickets in quick succession, the Aussies found themselves in a spot of bother. Head and Marnus Labuschagne stitched a solid partnership of 192 to bring Australia back in the contest. Head went back to the dressing room having scored 137 runs off 120 balls. The 29-year-old’s fabulous knock comprised 15 boundaries and four sixes.

Australia scored the winning runs with 42 balls to spare. The six-wicket win over India helped Australia to be crowned world champions for the sixth time.