WC 2023 Curtain Raiser: Are India Firm Favourites? | Sledging Room, Ep 72

As the 2023 Cricket World Cup is set to get underway, India emerge as a formidable force and a favorite to clinch the title. The tournament, scheduled from October 5 to November 19, will be hosted across ten stadiums in India, with the final match set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This marks a significant event for India, as they, under Rohit Sharma, seek to end a decade-long trophy drought at major ICC events. India had issues with fitness of some of their star players and form concerns, but the team has managed to head into the World Cup with most boxes ticked. KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah looked ready after recovering from long injury layoffs while the addition of off-spinner R Ashwin as a late replacement for injured Axar Patel adds variety and more experience to the bowling line-up.  The memory of India's triumphant 2011 World Cup victory, where Sachin Tendulkar emerged as the highest run-getter and Virat Kohli played a pivotal role in the final against Sri Lanka, still lingers. However, since lifting the 2013 Champions Trophy, India has not won a global title, despite their financial muscle and smooth run-up to the tournament. Pakistan, a team known for its unpredictability, could potentially pose a challenge to all teams, including India. However, they have one too many problems as their middle-order and spin-bowling line-up look weak. Babar Azam needs to work magic and inspire his team if Pakistan are to make a mark.  Tune in! Produced, Sound Mix By- Kapil and Sachin