As the anticipation builds for the ICC World Cup 2023, cricket legend Sourav Ganguly has pinpointed three standout performers from the Indian team who could propel them to their third 50-over title. With the tournament set to take place on Indian soil, the two-time champions are poised to make their mark, reminiscent of their 2011 victory under MS Dhoni’s leadership.
Ganguly, the guiding force behind India’s 2003 ICC World Cup final appearance, asserts that the likes of Virat Kohli, captain Rohit Sharma, and the young sensation Shubman Gill are the linchpins for India’s aspirations on the grand stage. Kohli’s form and Rohit’s captaincy are pivotal, according to the former India skipper, at the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Intriguingly, Ganguly forecasts that this will be Rohit Sharma’s final appearance in a 50-over World Cup. “Virat is in exceptional form, displaying remarkable prowess over the past few months. Alongside Rohit Sharma, he will be India’s cornerstone. Rohit, as captain, is embarking on his maiden and culminating 50-over World Cup journey,” Ganguly stated on the Backstage With Boria show.
The veteran opener delivered an exceptional performance in the 2019 World Cup, amassing centuries against top teams. “With a stunning record of five centuries in the last World Cup, he exhibited brilliance. Furthermore, Shubman Gill possesses the class to rise to the occasion and clinch victories for India. Their individual contributions will be pivotal if India aims to claim the title,” Ganguly emphasized.
India, a former World Cup champion, will commence their campaign against Australia on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.
Asia Cup Prelude
Preceding the ICC World Cup, India will engage in the action-packed Asia Cup, a preparatory phase for the bigger tournament. Co-hosted by Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the Asia Cup’s 16th edition features Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, and Nepal alongside the core competitors.
India, the most successful team in Asia Cup history, finds themselves grouped with Pakistan and Nepal in Group A. This Asia Cup stint is an opportunity for India to hone their skills and solidify their strategies before the World Cup showdown.