IND vs AUS 2023: Images of The Oval pitch surface ahead of WTC Final

The blockbuster World Test Championship Final between India and Australia is all set to enthral fans with some rollicking red-ball cricket. However, India's hopes of getting their hands on an ICC trophy since 2013 seem to have taken a massive dent after pictures emerged of a greenish track prepared for the summit clash at The Oval. 

A formidable Australian bowling attack will be licking their lips at the prospect of bowling on a fast-bowling-friendly surface at The Oval. Although Rohit Sharma's side also boasts of a plethora of options in the fast bowling department, the absence of Jasprit Bumrah slightly decreases India's threat with the ball. 

Apart from the skill factor, the Australians are more familiar with the surface due to their frequent visits to the country for their famed Ashes rivalry with arch-nemesis England. However, Pat Cummins' side also suffered an injury blow in the lead-up to the summit clash after star pacer Josh Hazlewood was ruled out from the WTC Final due to a side strain.

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Here's the pitch two days before the WTC Final between India and Australia. #TheOval #INDvsAUS #WTCFinal

04:31 PM · Jun 05, 2023

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India is in a selection dilemma ahead of the WTC Final against Australia

Talking about the surface, the pitch in London has traditionally assisted the slower bowlers as the match progresses, contrary to the latest pictures which suggest an out-and-out paradise for the fast bowlers. The Indian batters haven't fared well at this venue with their susceptibility against swing bowling bringing about their downfall in English conditions.

If the pitch indeed turns out to be a fast bowler's friend, the Asian giants might opt for four outright seam bowling options with Ravindra Jadeja as the only spinner in the startling eleven, leaving no room for veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin.