Asia Cup 2023
‘I am sure that India will win the Asia Cup but in World Cup…’ – Former India cricketer makes bold prediction
After winning the World Cup in 2011 as the hosts, the Men in Blue are gearing up to win the title of the 2023 ODI World Cup. India will open their World Cup campaign against Australia whereas the opener features England and New Zealand in a rematch of the previous edition’s final. Meanwhile, former India cricketer Madan Lal feels India will win the upcoming Asia Cup but has doubts about winning the World Cup.
Notably, the former India all-rounder had named a few other nations as well that have equal chances of winning the World Cup in India. In addition, the former right-handed batter believes that Rohit Sharma’s side has a huge advantage of playing games on their home soil, but playing under pressure will be the disadvantage for Team India.
Everybody has a chance in the World Cup: Madan Lal
“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. 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,” Madan Lal said.
Moreover, the 1983 World Cup-winning cricketer feels injuries are the main concern for the team. Furthermore, the 72-year-old cricketer wants the team to play more games ahead of the marquee event to gain confidence. In addition, the Punjab-born cricketer wants players to be assured of having no injuries until the ODI World Cup.
“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,” he added further.