‘There are certain drawbacks of home field,’ warns Wasim Akram ahead of the ODI World Cup in 2023. Cricket fans are really excited about the impending blockbuster 50-over game. With the last three significant trophies won by host countries (India in 2011, Australia in 2015, and England in 2019), many cricket analysts consider the Rohit-led Indian team to be the favourites for the forthcoming tournament. However, former famous bowler Wasim Akram has criticised this notion, warning of the drawbacks of playing on home soil and the added pressure that comes with it.
The renowned cricketer emphasises the need of managing expectations and dealing with the obstacles of playing in front of enthusiastic home fans in his caution to the Indian team just two months before the World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness, he believes, may be a game changer for India. The presence and form of Bumrah would have a significant impact on the team’s chances in the competition.
“Of course, India has Mohammad Shami, who is very spectacular and bowls like a dream, but Bumrah must stay healthy. I’m not sure what his fitness situation is, but if he’s fine, that will make a significant difference. Furthermore, they have some pretty talented spinners and all-rounders – Jadeja, Ashwin – so we’ll see who plays,” the Pakistani speedster added on Radio Haanji.
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India, according to Akram, has a competitive roster with multiple match-winners, and they have demonstrated their potential to succeed at the highest level in various cricketing formats. However, in a high-profile contest like the ODI World Cup, mental toughness is essential. The increased pressure to deliver and meet up to winning’s lofty expectations
“There have been some really good players coming from India, but there are some disadvantages to playing on home soil.” India won in 2011, but there is always added strain. Pakistan is in the same boat. The pressure would be on them if they were the hosts. “And the other way around,” Akram concluded.
Team India’s most recent ICC tournament success came in the 2013 Champions Trophy, captained by MS Dhoni. Since then, India has had several close calls, losing in four ICC tournament finals and exiting in a number of other semi-finals.
Under Virat Kohli’s guidance, India has reached new heights in Test cricket, becoming the top-ranked team in the format. They have, however, encountered difficulties in ICC competitions, notably a loss in the Champions Trophy final in 2017 and a semi-final exit in the Cricket World Cup in 2019.
