"Tape and determination! ", Damien Martyn says.

Ricky Ponting (140 not out from 138 balls) and Damien Martyn (88 not out from 84) added 234 for the unconquered third wicket to put the World Cup beyond India © Getty Images

Some years ago, there was once this young Australian boy: a flamboyant, good-looking, quick-talking and wonderful batsman who made his Test debut for the country at a tender age of just 21. Technically sound, he was the emerging star of his country and expectations were rising.


But this boy was not aware of the rules. He lived fast and loose and, after one muscular stroke too many, the Australian critics had their ammunition and he was dropped. Despondent, he nearly gave up to work in the travel business. But he left behind some memories of his potential for the world to admire and learn from. Here's one such instance:


It was the 2003 World Cup Finals, Australia were 125 for two, just a ball short of 20 overs. The Indians rejoiced on the field, and their fans revelled in the stands, in front of television sets, in all the movie theatres of New Jersey which were showing the match live. But things changed as Damien Martyn came in to bat. After missing the semi-finals against Sri Lanka due to a finger injury, he was not expected to play the finals. but he did! And that too, with a broken finger! Here's what he said when our Head Writer- Param Kothari questioned him on the same! -

@kothari_param lots of tape and determination

— Damien Martyn (@damienmartyn) August 23, 2015

It was the 'Ponting-Martyn show' from then on. The former taking the 'tried and tested' route by playing himself in, perfectly accompanied by the natural hitting of Damien Martyn. They both complemented each other so well. The plan was crystal clear initially,- 50 in 52 balls, 100 off 109.

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With Ponting scoring 140 off 138 and Martyn 88 from just 84 deliveries, both left the field together after the last ball of the innings! A partnership that won Australia their 3rd World Cup. After posting a hefty target for India, they bowled beautifully with execution and were crowned the World Champions.