Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag expressed his belief that the entire nation will be determined to secure victory in the ODI World Cup 2023, which will be hosted by India, as a tribute to batting maestro Virat Kohli. Sehwag emphasized the crucial role Kohli is expected to play in India’s campaign to lift the coveted trophy in the upcoming tournament.
Virat Kohli is widely regarded as the finest cricketer India has produced in the modern era. The right-handed batsman ranks second in terms of highest run-scorers for India in the 50-over format, only behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has amassed a staggering 12,898 runs in 274 ODIs, boasting an exceptional average of 57.32, which includes 46 centuries.
Following the announcement of the Cricket World Cup 2023 fixtures in Mumbai, Virender Sehwag reminisced about the memorable moment when his teammates lifted Sachin Tendulkar after India’s triumphant World Cup campaign in 2011.
Also Read: ICC ODI World Cup 2023: Sourav Ganguly Shares Insights on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s Future in World Cup 2023
“We played that World Cup for Tendulkar. Winning the World Cup would have been a glorious farewell for Sachin paaji. Virat Kohli is in the same position now. Everyone will strive to win the World Cup for him. He always gives more than 100 percent,” Sehwag conveyed during an interview with Star Sports.
Also Read: Virender Sehwag Recalls MS Dhoni’s Unique Superstition of Eating ‘Khichdi’ During India’s 2011 World Cup Win
“Virat Kohli himself is eagerly looking forward to this World Cup. With 100,000 spectators at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Virat understands the pitch conditions well. I am confident he will accumulate numerous runs and give his all to bring the World Cup home for India,” he further added.
India etched their names in history by becoming the first host nation to claim the 50-over World Cup in men’s cricket in 2011. The iconic Sachin Tendulkar, who had participated in six World Cups, finally had the opportunity to lift the prestigious ICC trophy.
Dhoni played a crucial unbeaten innings of 91 runs as India defeated Sri Lanka to clinch their second World Cup title at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. India will kickstart their World Cup campaign by facing Australia on October 8 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.