India is gearing up to host the ODI World Cup once again, with the tournament set to commence on October 5. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Indian team will kickstart their campaign against Australia on October 8 in Chennai, followed by a much-anticipated clash against Pakistan on October 15. This tournament holds immense significance for India as they seek to end their title drought in ICC events, having not won any since 2013.
For the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and other Indian stars, the 2023 World Cup presents a golden opportunity to replicate the success of the MS Dhoni-led team in the 2011 edition when they emerged as champions on home soil. Fondly recalling the iconic image of Virat Kohli carrying Sachin Tendulkar on his shoulders and parading him around the Wankhede Stadium, Virender Sehwag shed light on the amusing reason behind it.
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“Because we rejected, Sachin was so heavy, we couldn’t lift him. We were old. We had shoulder injuries, and MS had knee problems, while others had various issues. So we entrusted the task to the youngsters. We told them to go and pick up Sachin Tendulkar and take him for a round. And that’s why it was Virat Kohli,” chuckled Virender Sehwag during the ICC 2023 World Cup fixture event.
In the upcoming World Cup, the Indian team, as one of the top contenders, will be the most traveled side, covering a staggering distance of approximately 8,400 km while traversing nine cities for their nine league games in a span of 34 days. Should India progress to the semifinals and potentially reach the final, the overall distance covered would amount to nearly 9,700 km for 11 matches in 42 days.
While 8,400 km may not seem excessively daunting within a 34-day timeframe, it poses its own challenges for the Indian players. With matches concluding around 11 pm, the team will be required to catch flights every third day, adding to the physical and mental toll of the demanding 100-over games.
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As the 2023 World Cup approaches, the Indian team will need to manage their travel schedules effectively while ensuring their performances remain consistent throughout the tournament. With high expectations from fans and a thirst for glory in ICC events, India aims to make their mark and bring the prestigious World Cup trophy back home.
