IND vs PAK: "Sure That They Will Win The Asia Cup But In World Cup.." - Madan Lal Makes A Bold Prediction
Published - 25 Aug 2023, 01:14 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:17 AM
Former Indian all-rounder Madan Lal expressed his confidence in the Rohit Sharma-led team winning the title during the upcoming edition of the Asia Cup. However, Madan Lal highlighted that the Men in Blue are not title favorites to win the much-awaited ODI World Cup 2023 at home.
The Indian cricket team will participate in the Asia Cup 2023 in preparation for the ODI World Cup. The selectors recently unveiled the 17-member squad for the continental tournament. The team management will finalize the 15-member squad following the players’ performance in the event.
Everybody Has A Chance – Madan Lal
Madan Lal acknowledged that any of the top six teams, like Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa, have a chance to excel in the World Cup. Lal said India’s home advantage might pose both benefits and pressure due to expectations.
“I am sure that they will win the Asia Cup but in World Cup any six teams – Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa… are the 6 top teams,” Lal told HindustanTimes.com.
“Everybody has a chance. We are playing at home so there is this advantage.But at the same time, it could turn into a disadvantage as well because of pressure. Thankfully, they all are experienced players and know how to handle pressure,” he added.
India will host the 13th edition of the World Cup between October 5 and November 19. The hosts will aim to end their ICC trophy drought with a triumph at home. They last won an ICC title in 2013 during the Champions Trophy in England.
My Concern Will Be The Fitness Levels – Madan Lal
Madan Lal highlighted KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s lack of match practice before the tournament. He stressed the crucial role of participating in multiple matches to bolster confidence.
“My concern will be the fitness levels and nothing else. They are experiences, they have the exposure. Definitely, if they could have played a couple of games, it could have been better in terms of confidence. They could have felt being part of the game and it would have reassured them that they are injury-free,” added Lal.
KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer returned to the national team after a prolonged injury layoff. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Iyer is fully fit, and Rahul would miss a couple of matches in the tournament due to a niggle.
