Sourav Ganguly Confident Of India's Chances In ODI World Cup, Backs Rohit Sharma, Rahul Dravid To Succeed

The Indian team has faced criticism for failing to win an ICC trophy despite having a strong line-up, including good bench strength. They will open their campaign against Australia on October 8.

Outlook Sports Desk

Updated on: 8 July 2023 9:58 am

India are currently on a full tour of the West Indies, starting with the 1st Test on July 12.

The 2023 ODI World Cup is scheduled to commence on October 5 with India, led by Rohit Sharma, kicking off their campaign against five-time champions Australia.

The last time India won an ICC trophy was in 2013, whereas the World Cup final win came in 2011, both under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Former BCCI president and India captain Sourav Ganguly placed faith in India's chances of winning another World Cup at home, this time under the leadership of Rohit and guidance of Rahul Dravid.

While speaking during an interview, Ganguly said, "Pressure will always be there. When they played before also, there was pressure. Rohit Sharma has five centuries in the last ODI World Cup. I am sure there must have been pressure on him then also. Pressure is not a problem. I am sure they will find a way to succeed. During Rahul Dravid's playing days, there was pressure to perform, and now that he is the head coach, there is pressure on him to deliver. That will not go away, and I don't think pressure is an issue."

Ganguly explained his logic by highlighting Rohit's five title wins in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well as the 2018 Asia Cup win.

"Just win it. He has won five IPLs, which is not easy also. So hopefully, he can do it for India in this World Cup," Ganguly continued.

Speaking about the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, which will host five matches, including a semi-final match, he said, "We are extremely happy to have five matches at the Eden Gardens. I must thank the BCCI and Jay Shah for giving us a semi-final. I had spoken to him, and I am sure the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) must have spoken to him a number of times about the matches."

Ganguly has also picked India, Australia, England and New Zealand to reach the semi-finals, while giving Pakistan an outside chance. "Pakistan better qualify so that we will have the India-Pakistan semi-final at the Eden Gardens," he said.

Ganguly had led India to the 2003 ICC World Cup final where they lost to Australia by 125 runs.

(With inputs from ANI)