In the 2003 World Cup final, India lost to Australia. In the 2003 World Cup, Rahul Dravid, who is the head coach of the current Indian team, had donned the role of India’s wicketkeeper. He had scored 47 in that match. In the 2023 finals, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma had also scored 47 runs and both of them ended on the losing side.
In the trivia shared by Google India, Virat Kohli (2023 World Cup) and Sachin Tendulkar (2003 World Cup) – both from Team India – were listed as the leading run scorers, and 20 years apart.
Sourav Ganguly and Rohit Sharma were leading the Indian sides for first time as captain in 2003 and 2023 respectively.
The Google note also pointed out that for both in both the World Cups, “Rahuls” had donned the wicket-keeping roles for Team India and both were not specialist wicket-keepers. Rahul Dravid had taken up wicketkeeper’s gloves in 2003 and had also contributed handsomely with the bat too. KL Rahul was the wicketkeeper in World Cup 2023 and also excelled with the bat.
In 2003, Ricky Ponting led Australia had progressed to the finals after remaining unbeaten in all group-stage matches. In 2023 edition, India had also progressed to the final on an unbeaten streak.
2003 Cricket World Cup final against Australia, Johannesburg
In the final at a Johannesburg, Australians after being put to bat first got off to a great start with Adam Gilchrist (57) and Matthew Hayden (37) laying the foundation for a big score. Skipper Ricky Ponting then joined in the run feast scoring 140 in 121 ball and Damien Martyn (88 in 84 balls) as Australia amassed 359/2 in 50 overs.
In chase of 360, the India were bundled out for 234, losing by 125 runs. Virender Sehwag (82) and wicket keeper Rahul Dravid (47) were among the top scorers.
2023 Cricket World Cup final against Australia, Ahmedabad
Australia won a record-extending sixth 50-overs World Cup title by defeating hosts and title favourites India by six wickets. Put into bat, India were bundled out for 240 as Australian bowlers put in a clinical display and backed by superb fielding. Rohit Sharma (47), Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66) were among the top scorers. Australia reached their target in 43 overs to snap India’s 10-match winning streak at the tournament, with Travis Head hitting a superb century.