Ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023, Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, dominated Sri Lanka to clinch their 8th Asia Cup title with a 10-wicket victory. This triumph puts India back on the map as champions in multi-team tournaments, a position they have struggled with in recent years. Kapil Dev, the former Indian captain who led the team to their first World Cup win in 1983, expressed his delight with India’s performance and stated that the team is prepared for the upcoming World Cup.
Kapil Dev noted that as a cricketer, he enjoys watching closely contested games, but as a player, he believes in going all-out to secure a victory as soon as possible. He said, “What a fantastic game of cricket. As a cricketer, I would like to see a much closer game, but as a player, I feel ’30 pe out karo, aake jeeto’.” This statement was made in reference to India’s dominant performance against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final.
Looking ahead to the ODI World Cup in 2023, Kapil Dev emphasized the importance of finishing in the top four and acknowledged that it is uncertain whether India can be considered favorites to win the tournament. He stated, “I think if we come in top 4, that is more important. You can’t say, right now, we are favorites. Our team is very good. We have to work very hard. I know about my team. I don’t know about other teams…Indian team is ready to play and win the Championship.”
As India shifts its focus to the ODI World Cup, the team’s squad has already been announced. However, Rohit Sharma, the captain, has indicated that there might still be room for further changes if needed. He mentioned, “As a spinner-all-rounder, Ashwin is in the line. I have been talking to him on the phone. The injury happened to Axar at the last minute. Washington was available, so he had to come and perform the role for us.” The finalization of the ODI World Cup 2023 squad is set for 28th September, allowing for potential changes before then.
