As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the upcoming ICC ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, former Indian cricket team’s opening batsman Virender Sehwag has offered his insights on the ongoing series between India and Australia. Sehwag has identified a player he believes possesses a remarkable ‘X-factor’ for India, capable of instilling fear in the opposition.
The match between India and Australia unfolded in the first ODI of the three-match series at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali on September 22. This series serves as a valuable opportunity for both teams to refine their strategies and squad compositions ahead of the big tournament set to commence in India on October 5.
Virender Sehwag, the former Indian team’s opening batsman celebrated for his aggressive playing style throughout his illustrious career, has pinpointed a player he deems capable of leaving a substantial imprint on India’s World Cup journey. After the Indian cricket team’s victory in the 1st ODI vs Australia, Sehwag took his official X account and let know his opinion.
Happy for @surya_14kumar .
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) September 22, 2023
He is surely an ex-factor . Not many players have the ability to play in the gear that he can and he surely has the game to create fear in the minds of opposition. Great that we have persisted with him and he will be an asset. Congratulations Bharat. pic.twitter.com/rxe3oVAXeO
Suryakumar Yadav, who is quite popularly known for his aggressive batting style in T20 format and inventive stroke selection, notched up his third ODI fifty against Australia. He also forged an impressive 80-run partnership alongside stand-in captain KL Rahul for the fifth wicket.
Fueled by Suryakumar Yadav’s 49-ball 50 and KL Rahul’s undefeated 58 from 63 deliveries, India successfully pursued the 277-run target, achieving victory in 48.4 overs while retaining five wickets in hand.
With that win, the Indian cricket team is leading the 3 match series 1-0 after the first match. The remaining two matches are scheduled to take place on the 24th and 27th September in Indore and Rajkot respectively.
Meanwhile, the Men in Blue start their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign against Australia itself on the 8th of October in Bengaluru. The opening match of the World Cup will be played between the defending champions and the finalists of the last edition, England and New Zealand respectively. Meanwhile, the big match between the Indian cricket team and the Pakistan cricket team will be played on the 14th of October.
