India's first World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev sees India, Australia and England in the top four, while giving full marks to selectors for picking a balanced team. He was speaking at a promotional event ahead of the World Cup.
When asked whether Virat Kohli-led Indian team can do a 1983, the former India skipper said, “ They will definitely be interested in the top four. The team has to perform as a unit. It is tough to say who will be the winner. England, Australia and India will make it to the semifinals. But it is tough to say who out of New Zealand, Pakistan, West Indies and South Africa will make the last four. The top three are strong.”
The ICC World Cup begins on May 30 in England. India play their first match against South Africa on June 5.
Kapil Dev said the World Cup-bound 15-member Indian squad was balanced. “India has a combination of youth and experience. They have the right balance—four fast bowlers, three spinners, and have Virat Kohli and M.S. Dhoni.”
He, however, said it is not about the chemistry between Kohli and Dhoni that would matter in the tournament but the team's requirements. “Kohli and Dhoni are not husband and wife, so one doesn’t require chemistry! Both cricketers have done so well for the team. They are not playing for themselves but for their country.”
He also praised India's fast bowling department. “They are very good in English conditions. Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah have both pace and swing.”
On all-rounder Vijay Shankar being the surprise selection for the number four slot, Dev, arguably, India’s finest all rounder till date, said that with the advent of T20 cricket, the concept of specialised batting order barring openers has changed. “Cricket in the last 10 years has changed so much that one can’t say who will be number 4. Anyone can go in at any spot.”
