Indian cricket, without a doubt, has been fortunate to have had many great captains over its 82-year history. Sourav Ganguly took over as captain at the toughest time that Indian cricket has ever faced in its long history. The Indian team, arguably, enjoyed their greatest period outside the sub-continent when Ganguly was captain. However, with the focus of the cricket togetherness now turning towards World Cup 2019, Ganguly was asked about Virat Kohli captaincy, which was once again under the radar, after he failed continuously to lead RCB to the glory for the third consecutive time.
Ganguly’s Statment
Ganguly shuts the critics and asked them not to compare Kohli’s captaincy numbers with that of India. The former captain feels that Kohli has a good record as an Indian captain. The merit for Kohli will be the support of two very experienced and successful leaders- MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma- as he (Kohli) will be supported by these two.
“Don’t compare Virat Kohli’s IPL captaincy record with that of India. His captaincy records for India is very good actually. He’s got him in his team as the vice-captain. Dhoni is there. So he’s well supported,” Ganguly told.
On being asked about team India’s chances in 2019 World Cup, Ex-Captain mentioned the Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, as he believed Pandya will play a key role in the mega event in England. He also said, ” The Indian all-rounder is in tremendous form. He will be very, very important for India’s chances.”
Pakistan as one of the favorites
Ganguly picked Pakistan alongside India, Australia, and England as the four semi-finalists in the upcoming World Cup, saying their records in world tournaments in England is remarkable.
He said, “England has been a ‘lucky’ venue for Pakistan, who had won the 2017 Champions Trophy beating India and had also bagged their maiden World Twenty20 title in 2009.”
“Pakistan has consistence performance in England. You see the last game in England. They got 374 on the board and Pakistan just lost the match by 12 runs. They have also beaten England in their home in Test matches because of their strong bowling lineup,” said Ganguly.
India Should not take Pakistan Lightly
Ganguly made it clear that Virat Kohli and company should not take Pakistan lightly as they would prove to be strong contenders. Dada said “I don’t believe in records. Both of them will have to play well on that particular day. India will be a very good side. Considerably, they will be very hard to beat. The team which has great players likes of Kohli, Rohit, Shikhar Dhawan can’t be weak.”
“However, it’s good that India is under pressure as every other team in the World Cup will be under pressure as well. You don’t want to turn up like a Nepal or an Ireland where the entire world thinks that you’re not going to win,” he added.
Source: TNIE
