ICC World Cup 2023: Former Pakistani Skipper Comments on India’s Preparation and Captaincy Decision

Rashid Latif opined that if Virat Kohli had retained his captaincy role for the host nation, India's squad would likely be in a more advanced state of readiness at this point.

As the cricketing world gears up for the eagerly anticipated ICC World Cup 2023 in India, former Pakistani skipper Rashid Latif has shared his perspective on the Men in Blue’s preparations for the prestigious event. Latif voiced his opinion, suggesting that had Virat Kohli continued as captain, the Indian squad would likely be better prepared at this point.

ICC World Cup 2023: Former Pakistani Skipper Comments on India's Preparation and Captaincy Decision

Virat Kohli stepped down from the captaincy of the 50-over format following the T20 World Cup 2021 in the United Arab Emirates. This decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection committee was driven by the aim to have a consistent leader across all three formats. Subsequently, Rohit Sharma took the reins of captaincy.

Speaking to Cricket Baaz, Latif stated, “If they had allowed Virat Kohli to continue as captain, India would have been 100 percent ready for the World Cup by this time.” The former Pakistani skipper’s assertion underlines his belief that Kohli’s leadership could have facilitated a smoother and more comprehensive preparation for the imminent global tournament.

Also Read: ICC World Cup 2023: Ex-Selector’s Recommendation to Address India’s Middle-Order Woes

Latif also delved into his assessment of the Indian team’s recent approach to team composition, particularly within the middle-order batting lineup. He criticized the frequent experimentation, emphasizing that consistent changes have hindered players from settling into their roles effectively. Latif highlighted the potential risks associated with this approach, especially considering the return of players like KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer from injuries.

He elaborated, “Indian team management has experimented with several players and if I talk about their batting the middle and lower order say from 4 to 7 they just have not allowed any new player to settle down with frequent changes. I say risky because KL and Iyer are returning from injuries.”

Latif also drew attention to a strategic aspect that could pose challenges for Asian teams, particularly during the middle overs. He noted that while English, Australian, and New Zealand batters have adeptly incorporated reverse sweeps and switch shots against spinners, Asian teams might face difficulties in matching this performance. This skillset has become increasingly potent for players from the mentioned nations, allowing them to maintain a high strike rate even during the 50-over format.

ICC World Cup 2023: Former Pakistani Skipper Comments on India's Preparation and Captaincy Decision

As India eagerly anticipates the forthcoming ODI World Cup, they hold the advantage of playing in front of their home fans. The pressure, however, remains palpable, particularly on Rohit Sharma as the team strives to break a decade-long ICC trophy drought. The host nation’s journey in the tournament will commence on October 8th against Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

IPL 2024

Related articles

IPL 2025, RCB vs RR- Bengaluru Pitch Report and Weather Forecast Today Match

The 42nd match of IPL 2025 will see Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in...

IPL 2025 Orange and Purple Cap List- SKY Reaches Number 3

Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, Mumbai Indians registered their fourth consecutive win by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad by 7 wickets. The star performer with...

BCCI Central Contract 2025: 34 Players Including Shreyas Iyer Get Lucky, Awarded Central Contracts – What Happened to Ishan Kishan?

BCCI Central Contract 2025 Announced: Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan Return to the List of 34 Players The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)...

KKR vs GT, IPL 2025- Eden Gardens Pitch Report Today Match

The 39th match of IPL 2025 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will be played at Eden Gardens. KKR comes into...

Suryakumar Makes a Strong Entry in IPL 2025 Orange Cap Race; Who is Owning the Purple Cap?

There have been consistent changes in the Orange Cap race in IPL 2025. Even after the double header on Sunday (April 20), there was...

RR vs LSG, IPL 2025- Sawai Mansingh Stadium Pitch Report Today Match

The 36th match of IPL 2025 between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will be played today, Saturday, 19th April, at the...

RCB vs PBKS Playing 11: Punjab Likely to Make Major Changes Despite Win, Set to Clash with RCB in Bengaluru

In the 34th match of the Indian Premier League 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face off against Punjab Kings today at the M. Chinnaswamy...

RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2025- Chinnaswamy Stadium Pitch Report Today Match

The IPL 2025 clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) will be held on Friday at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in...