Despite India’s defeat in the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri remains confident. He still sees India as the ‘favorites’ to win the ODI World Cup later this year. Shastri’s unshakeable belief in the team springs from their track record in the ODI format, a game in which they have demonstrated great skill.
The former coach views the upcoming tournament as an opportunity for India to end their ICC Trophy drought. His faith, however, isn’t blind. He highlights the need for selecting the right XI, a combination that balances experience and youth for Indian conditions.
In an exclusive interview with The Week, Shastri argues against knee-jerk reactions due to the WTC final loss. He reminds us that the World Cup is a different beast, one that India has tamed in the past. He says, “It’s a different format, a format that India has been playing well in.”
Ravi Shastri also stresses the importance of World Cups, stating that they didn’t crumble under pressure. He recounts reaching the semifinals and finals, pointing out that winning requires a combined effort. He asserts, “You can’t point fingers at an individual or the captain. You need hundreds in the WTC final.”
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Ravi Shastri calls India the favourites to win the 2023 World Cup despite the loss in the WTC Final 2023
The veteran coach emphasizes the importance of big scores in finals, citing the need for at least a hundred or three fifties. His stance is clear – a team failing to achieve that doesn’t deserve the title. Shastri believes in collective responsibility over blaming the captain.
On the topic of the World Cup, Ravi Shastri provides insights into his ideal team composition. He believes that current form will be crucial as the event approaches. In his ideal lineup, he sees room for two left-handers in the top six, reminiscent of the victorious 2011 team with Gambhir, Yuvraj, and Raina.
His reasoning is simple – it’s about achieving the right mix and balance. He stresses the need for enough left-handed talent as backup for any potential injuries to experienced players.
Ravi Shastri’s analysis offers a reassuring perspective to Indian cricket fans. His firm belief in India’s ODI prowess and his strategic insights into team composition reflect a clear vision. As the World Cup looms, fans and players alike will hope to prove Shastri’s faith right and bring home the coveted trophy.
