According to former Australian captain Michael Clarke, Virat Kohli will undoubtedly pose a significant threat to opposing teams in the 2023 World Cup. However, he suggests that India’s captain Rohit Sharma may be the most formidable player in the tournament.
Kohli and Rohit will play crucial roles in India’s World Cup campaign as the team’s most seasoned players. With the tournament being held on their home turf, the Men in Blue are considered strong contenders for victory.
Clarke revealed to Boria Majumdar on the show Backstage with Boria that Rohit will be under pressure as captain because India hasn’t won an ICC tournament in ten years. He did, however, support the Indian cricketer in his role as both captain and hitter.
“It will be [pressure will be there], but I think his captaincy is very good. I’ve said that for a long time. I think he’s a very good tactician. I think he reads the game really well,” Clarke said.
Michael Clarke
In response to Rohit the batter, he stated:
“Everybody wants to open the batting in India in one-day cricket. The thing about Rohit Sharma is if there’s any swing, he’s good enough to see that off. There’s not too many players in the game that have a better power play, that hit more boundaries than Rohit Sharma.
“So as good as Virat Kohli is, Rohit Sharma could be the most dangerous player in the World Cup. I just think he’s that good in those conditions. With Rohit, he could make a double-hundred. Like we saw with Mitchell Marsh the other night, battered beautifully and made 90. Rohit Sharma can make 150, 180, 200. He is that good,”
Michael Clarke
“Kuldeep could be a big player for India” – Clarke
Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist spinner, was hailed by the former Australian captain as a vital talent for India. Batters, according to Clarke, are still having difficulty reading the spinner.
“Kuldeep could be a big player for India. Back of the hand, got an amazing wrong ’un. I still don’t think the batters pick him completely. I think he’s a massive strike weapon for India. Spin is still an important part of your World Cup campaign if you’re playing in Indian conditions. Even if they’re not taking wickets, they can change the pace of the game. They can slow scoring,” he commented.
Image Source: Getty Images