India’s former captain Kapil Dev is positive about India’s chances in the upcoming World Cup in England and Wales.
Speaking on the sidelines of a promotional event in the Capital, the former all-rounder said that India should least be in the top four and hopes to see England and Australia there as well. However, the fourth team can be a pick between a number of contenders he feels.
"I think India will definitely finish in the top four. After that, it will be really difficult. After the semifinals, stroke of luck alongside personal and team performance will determine who goes forward.
"England, Australia and India are the top three teams. These teams have more strength than the others.
"New Zealand is good, so are Pakistan, West Indies and South Africa. India in particular are good because I feel they are one of the more experienced and well-balanced sides. They have four fast bowlers, three spinners and in the end you have Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni," he said.
Even as the debate on whether Vijay Shankar was the right pick for India's no.4 slot at the upcoming World Cup refuses to die down, the former Indian captain has a different take on the whole issue.
"After seeing the T20s you can't even say for sure who is an opener and who is a no. 4 batsman. Now the mindset is anybody can play anywhere. In today's world, if you assign a number to a batsman it feels strange apart from an opener. And even openers are sent out at a different position many a times," Kapil said.
Shankar was chosen ahead of Ambati Rayudu by the selectors in April for the World Cup as chairman of selectors M.S.K. Prasad had said that Shankar provides a "three-dimensional" option due to his ability with the ball.
Moving forward, the former captain was asked about his opinion on the chemistry between India captain Virat Kohli and M.S. Dhoni. Kapil said that while the pair have been successful, any chemistry would come naturally because they are playing for their country.
"It looks like they have done extremely well which is great for India. As far as chemistry goes, all the players should understand that they are playing for their country and so no other thought should come in their heads. It's not a husband-wife relation that you need a chemistry. You are playing under the flag of the country," said Kapil.
Kapil also praised India's pace department and opined that the conditions on offer in England should suit them. "I think they are fantastic. They have (Mohammed) Shami and (Jasprit) Bumrah who can bowl at 145-plus speeds. They can swing the ball also and so this is a very good combination that we have," the 60-year-old said.
