India’s performance in knockout matches of ICC events has been disappointing since their triumph in the 2013 Champions Trophy. Recently, they faced a defeat in the World Test Championship final against Australia, raising questions about their ability to excel in crucial encounters. As India prepares to host the ODI World Cup later this year, speculations are mounting that it could be Virat Kohli’s last World Cup, given that he will turn 35 during the tournament.
However, renowned West Indian batsman Chris Gayle has a different perspective, believing that Kohli still has another World Cup left in him beyond the 2023 edition.
“Virat Kohli still has another World Cup in him. I don’t think this is going to be his last World Cup. I think he has another World Cup in him. India are favorites, they play at home as well. So it’s going to be very interesting,” expressed Chris Gayle in an interview with TimesofIndia.com.
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Gayle emphasized the significance of team selection and the competition for spots, as several talented players are vying for inclusion in the squad. He acknowledged that the home advantage would also add pressure on the Indian team.
When asked about the key players for India’s World Cup campaign, Gayle mentioned the injured paceman Jasprit Bumrah and the talented batsman Suryakumar Yadav. While Bumrah is currently recovering from a back injury at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Yadav is set to showcase his skills in the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies.
“[Jasprit] Bumrah for sure. I’m sure he’s going to be back. And young man Surya [Suryakumar Yadav]. These two guys,” said Chris Gayle.
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The highly-anticipated 2023 ODI World Cup will kick off on October 5 with a clash between England and New Zealand in Ahmedabad. India’s campaign will commence on October 8, as they go head-to-head against Australia in Chennai. With the home advantage and the prospect of Kohli’s leadership, Indian fans are eager to witness their team’s quest for a third ODI World Cup title.
