Former Indian batter Sanjay Manjrekar said that India has what it takes to emerge as champions in the upcoming ICC ODI World Cup at home. With the marquee event a month away, Team India announced its 15-member squad on Tuesday, September 5 as well. Despite a few players returning after a long from injury and battling for form, the team looks well-balanced on paper, especially for home conditions as well. They have reached several ICC tournaments as among the favourites, only to come up short in the knockout stages as well.

Speaking on ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar said, “I see India qualifying for the semis but it’s the challenges post the semis that India will have to contend with. There are some good sides around so it’s not going to be easy but it’s a good enough side to win the World Cup and it’s all about the big night,” he said.

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Meanwhile, veteran Tom Moody opined that India’s chances at the mega event could come down to the fitness and form of Jasprit Bumrah as well.

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“They definitely have a squad that can win the World Cup. Home advantage is a big one for India. A lot is going to depend on the fitness and longevity of Bumrah. He holds such an important key for India because of his high-quality impact early and also to close the innings,” he said. “It’s going to be a difficult World Cup in making sure you keep your bowlers fit because it’s a long campaign but India certainly have got the diversity in their side. It’s just the case of them making sure they have their key players fit, particularly their bowlers,” said Moody.