“India can do it again” – Kapil Dev picks Indian Team to win 2023 ODI World Cup
As the 2023 ODI World Cup approaches, cricket legend Kapil Dev has expressed his belief that Team India stands as the favorites to win the tournament, especially as it will be played on home soil. Scheduled to take place from October 5 to November 19, the World Cup will mark India’s chance to reclaim the coveted trophy after 12 years.
Kapil Dev, the captain who led India to victory in the 1983 World Cup, emphasized that the Men in Blue will face immense pressure from the expectations of their passionate fans. However, he also highlighted the team’s potential to handle such pressure and deliver exceptional performances when it matters the most.
One of the crucial aspects that Kapil Dev stressed upon was the need for effective workload management. With a jam-packed cricket calendar and continuous fixtures, players are exposed to a higher risk of injuries. Proper workload management strategies will be vital for the team’s success, ensuring that key players are fit and available for the crucial matches of the World Cup.
Kapil Dev said “I don’t know how it will pan out. They are yet to announce the team. India will always enter a tournament as favorites as it has been the case for a long time. It’s all about how the team comes to terms with the expectations from all sides. We have won a World Cup at home, and I am sure the team, whoever gets selected, can do it again. I hope the players will be fully prepared.”
Moreover he added “These players are playing some 10 months of cricket. So, managing your body is important to keep away from injuries.”
At the time of Kapil Dev’s statement, some prominent Indian players were undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant were in the recovery phase from their respective injuries. While Rishabh Pant was expected to make a return in time, the others were likely to feature in the 2023 Asia Cup, which was scheduled from August 30 to September 17, just before the marquee ICC event.