'It’s Unusual for Australia to Go into a World Cup with the Tag of Underdog' - Michael Kasprowicz

It has been nearly one year since the sandpaper gate shocked the cricketing world, and Cricket Australia, in particular. Meanwhile, Michael Kasprowicz, the former Australia pacer says a lot of water has passed under that bridge, and there are new beginnings in-sight for the Oz. Furthermore, he made a statement on Australia’s chances in the 2019 World Cup. Though he reckoned to label the defending champions as the underdogs heading into the mega event is unusual, Kasprowicz said it would release off the pressure.

People in Australia are emotional when it comes to cricket – Michael

Shedding light on the infamous controversy which had Cricket Australia in complete chaos; Kasprowicz noted the matter is not about recalibration and instead of rebuilding.

He said in Australia people are emotional when it comes to cricket, which is a good thing. Kasprowicz further added the structure had been built for the revamp of the Australian cricket which will reap the rewards.

“The way I look at it, this is the best time to be involved on that front,” explained the 46-year-old. “Because this isn’t just about recalibration, but more about rebuilding.”

“Everyone in Australia is very emotional when it comes to cricket, and that’s a good thing. It’s about reconnecting with the public as well. What we’re looking at now is to build this team and support them by putting up the required structures around them.”

Australia has a pool of talent – Kasprowicz

The Australia team in the past one year have suffered some heavy defeats. In England in 2018, they got blanked in the ODI series. To make matters worse, they lost the home ODIs against South Africa before losing 1-2 to Virat Kohli-led India in the 50-over format. In the meantime, their captain got changed; earlier it was Tim Paine, and now Aaron Finch holds the reigns.

Looking at such records and their ODI rankings, which is sixth; not many would agree with Kasprowicz of not terming Australia as the underdogs. However, the ex-Aussie pacer remains optimistic about the new squad gelling well and going for the glory.

“I still see a lot of talent in Australia, with the pace bowlers, all-rounders and batsmen,” observed Kasprowicz. “I think this has more to do with finding the right combination. Plus, you’ll have (David) Warner and (Steve) Smith back. They’re world-class batsmen, and they’ve just had a big break. Ideally, you’d want a lot more cricket before the World Cup begins, but we don’t live in an ideal world. Irrespective, form is just a ball or a wicket away,” he added.

Meanwhile, Australia will face India in the five ODIs and two T20Is, the tour which begins on February 24th in Vizag.