“There are certain disadvantages of home ground” Wasim Akram on India hosting ODI World Cup 2023

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has shared his perspective on Team India’s chances in the upcoming ODI World Cup. While acknowledging that India has a lineup of match-winners, Akram believes that the added pressure of playing at home and living up to high expectations could potentially impact their performances.

The 2023 ODI World Cup is set to kick off on October 5 with an exciting clash between 2019 finalists England and New Zealand. Although India won the 2011 World Cup at home, they have encountered difficulties in ICC events held on their home soil. In particular, they suffered semi-final exits during the other three instances of hosting or co-hosting a 50-over or T20 World Cup, with the most recent being the T20 World Cup in 2016.

Speaking to Radio Haanji, Akram offered cautionary advice to the Indian team about the possible challenges of playing at home.

Wasim Akram said “There have been some really good players coming from India but there are certain disadvantages of home ground. In 2011 India won, but there is always an extra added pressure. Same with Pakistan. If they were the hosts, the pressure would be on them. Vice-versa.”

However, he also acknowledged that India possesses a strong contingent of high-caliber players, especially in the bowling department, provided they remain fit and in form, He added on “Of course… India have Mohammad Shami, who is very impressive and is bowling like a dream, but Bumrah needs to remain fit. I don’t know what his situation is in terms of fitness but if he is fine, it will make a huge difference. Besides, they have really good spinners and all-rounders – Jadeja, Ashwin – let’s see who plays.”