Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly is confident of India ending their wait for an ICC trophy under Virat Kohli’s captaincy during the T20 World Cup in the UAE.
India begin their campaign against Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday.
Speaking to ABP News’ ‘Vishwa Vijeta Dubai Conclave 2021’, the former India captain said: “Yes there is a huge possibility of 13-0 happening and India extending their unbeaten streak against Pakistan in this World
Cup. All the players in this Indian team are genuine match-winners and fingers crossed, this team can finally end our 10-year wait of winning a World Cup.”
The conclave witnessed unanimity among former India and Pakistan players that the Indian side will have a huge advantage over their Pakistan counterparts.
“India versus Pakistan is always a big game, there is much hype and anticipation that is built around the game. I would say India are clear favourites as they have just come out playing a competitive IPL in the same venues and so would have an edge over Pakistan,” felt former captain Mohammed Azharuddin.
India’s first World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev was of the opinion that Jasprit Bumrah will be the X factor in Sunday’s high-voltage clash.
“As a bowler, I want Bumrah to rule the tournament. I want him to step forward, take the responsibility of taking wickets and winning the tournament for India, become the player of the tournament. Bumrah has got the X factor and he will be decisive in the India-Pakistan game,” Kapil said.
Dinesh Karthik felt the Indian players were in the right frame of mind. “I will go with India as the firm favourites to win Sunday’s game. India are easily the more talented side and the players look to be in the right frame of mind going into the big match.”
Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan said Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s presence in the Indian dressing room could prove to a big factor in the tournament.
“When you have a player like MS Dhoni in the dressing room, as an opponent you always dread that. Even before in our games, Dhoni has been a big factor, he has the ability to calm the environment and in a high-pressure game that is a huge bonus. Dhoni has won many titles and as a mentor he will be a huge plus for India in the World Cup,” Younis said.
“From Pakistan’s point of view, I am hoping that the 5-0 record in T20 World Cups will become 5-1. India-Pakistan is a high-pressure match and only those who are able to deliver in such scenarios go on to become legends of the game.”
Former Pakistan pacer Mohammed Amir felt Virat Kohli’s form could prove to be decisive.
“Virat Kohli is a legend, the way he keeps performing all the time, it is just amazing. An India versus Pakistan match is always high-pressure and Virat knows how to deliver under pressure.”
The players also spoke about the absence of bilateral cricketing ties between the two nations. They expressed hope that with former captain Imran Khan now Prime
Minister of Pakistan, the resumption of bilateral cricketing ties between the two countries would take place sooner than later.
The discussions also touched upon Kohli’s decision to quit captaincy, and how will it impact the Indian team.
