The stage is set for the commencement of the highly-anticipated ODI World Cup 2023. The multi-team tournament is set to begin today with a high-voltage clash between England and New Zealand. Hosts India will begin their journey in the event on October 8 in Chennai when the Rohit Sharma and Co. will take on Pat Cummins-led Australian team.
Ahead of India’s opening game in the competition, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh has identified a key player who he believes could be the difference-maker in India’s quest for World Cup glory.
Harbhajan places his bet on Suryakumar Yadav
Harbhajan has placed his bets on Suryakumar Yadav as the potential match-winner for Team India. He referred to him as the “X-factor” for India’s World Cup campaign. The veteran spinner emphasized that if Suryakumar carries his form and gets going, he could not only win individual matches but also secure the tournament for India.
“If he gets going, he won’t just win you the match, but he will win you the tournament. If I were a selector, I would have SKY as the second player in my team after the captain,” stated Harbhajan Singh during his appearance at the India Today Conclave.
Comparisons to AB de Villiers
Harbhajan went on to compare Suryakumar to South African cricket legend AB de Villiers, highlighting the unique qualities that makes SKY an essential addition to the playing eleven. Bhajji expressed his willingness to persist with Surya even if he faces a few initial setbacks in the tournament.
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“I don’t know what it is about him (Suryakumar Yadav). Today, I would be frightened bowling to him but not when I was at my peak. He reminds me of AB de Villiers. We need a player like him to play. Even if he flops, I would still play him for the remaining matches,” added Harbhajan.
Shubman Gill to shine in World Cup
In addition to Suryakumar, the cricketer-turned-commentator also praised the young opener Shubman Gill, acknowledging his potential to make a significant impact during the World Cup. Harbhajan believes that Gill has the opportunity to create a legacy and be remembered for his performances in the tournament.
“And another player I want to speak about is Shubman Gill; he has the chance to do something when he could be remembered forever,” the 43-year-old concluded.
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