Former Pakistan skipper Salman Butt has predicted that the team which will beat India will go on to win the upcoming ODI World Cup. India has been in stellar form in the recent past as they won the Asia Cup by beating Sri Lanka in the final by 10 wickets.
The Men in Blue continued their good show as they have taken an impregnable lead of 2-0 in the series against Australia.
Meanwhile, India’s bench strength has also grabbed their chances. The likes of Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer, and Suryakumar Yadav have also delivered for the team.
Furthermore, Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah have been in fine form in the recent past.
Salman Butt said on his YouTube Channel, “India are the only one in world cricket to have this ultimate rise. Everyone is talking about four teams to watch out for in the upcoming World Cup. However, what I believe is that the team that beats India will win the World Cup. India are the best team. Their batting is complete, and their bowling is most suitable to these conditions. Unless they themselves make mistakes, it is unlikely that any team will be even near them.”
Butt added that India has improved significantly in the last decade as far as fitness of players is concerned.
“India have improved significantly over the past few years. The fitness levels of these players are far better than what we say 15 years back. Similarly, the fielding standards have also improved. From infrastructure to commentators to experts to their kit, everything related to cricket in India is top-notch.”
The former Pakistan opener added that Indian cricket has improved amid the rise of T20 cricket leagues. The IPL has also played a key role in helping India take giant strides at the top level.
“Amid the rise of franchise-based T20 leagues, India is the only country whose cricket has improved. Test cricket and ODIs have suffered a lot with the increasing popularity of T20s. However, in spite of that, India are one team who have done well across formats. On the other hand, there has been a drastic fall for the rest of the teams. All other sides are struggling due to the rise of T20 leagues.”
The third ODI between India and Australia will be played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot on Wednesday.
