Rahul Dravid, who has played three World Cups — 1999 to 2007 — believes England is a strong contender and Australia has made great strides in the last few months. India and Pakistan/South Africa were his choice to complete the top four.
During the Star Re.Imagine awards function, elaborating on India’s chances, Dravid said: “We have had a couple of good years leading to the World Cup. We are No. 2 in ODIs. We have consistently produced good results in the last two-and-a-half years.”
Touching upon specifics, Dravid said: “I think it’s going to be a tough and competitive World Cup. All the teams are going to be very well prepared. It’s going to be a high-scoring World Cup.”
Focus will be on wicket-takers, and India is lucky in that regard, he said. “We have Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. Teams with bowlers capable of taking wickets in the middle overs have a better chance of restricting the opposition.”
India had every chance of making the the last four, he averred.
“There is a certain pressure associated with the event. One has to accept it, it’s inevitable. Having played three World Cups, I can say it’s a fantastic event, it’s a privilege to be part of the World Cup. One has to embrace it.
“There are going to be good and bad days, it allows to slip a bit. India has the potential and talent to learn and improve,” he said.
The captain of the 2007 World Cup squad also said Mahendra Singh Dhoni may appear casual in his approach but sees the big picture. “He is very special in being able to do that. And, Virat Kohli constantly keeps improving as a batsman and leader.”