Kaif says India were the best team, Warner suggests they should have played like the best team
The dust has settled on the Cricket World Cup 2023, and Australia is basking in the glory of their remarkable victory. Despite losing the first two matches of the tournament, they staged a stunning comeback, winning nine consecutive matches, including the final against India in front of a massive home crowd of 93,000.
This unexpected outcome has left many fans, former players, and commentators stunned. One of the most vocal critics is Mohammad Kaif, India’s former elite fielder and a hero of the 2003 NatWest final against England. Kaif believes that India was the better team despite losing the match, asserting that luck played a significant role in Australia’s victory.
In a recent tweet, Kaif stated, “Facts: It was Australia’s day in the final, they won, they are World Cup winners. More facts: India comprehensively won 10 games, they lost the 11th, they had the best bowlers and batters. They were the tournament’s best team. Both facts, on paper and on field. Relax Australia.”
Kaif’s sentiment echoes his earlier remarks made shortly after India’s loss, where he declared, “I can never accept that the best team of the tournament has won the World Cup. The Indian team is the best team on paper.”
These comments have drawn mixed reactions, with some supporting Kaif’s assessment and others questioning his objectivity. Two-time World Cup winner David Warner, in a response tinged with irony, tweeted, “I like MK, the issue is it does not matter what’s on paper. At the end of the day, you need to perform when it matters. That’s why they call it a final. That’s the day that counts and it can go either way, that’s sports. 2027 here we come.”
While India’s dominance throughout the tournament is undeniable, their inability to replicate their performance in knockout matches remains a concern. Their last victory in a World Cup knockout match dates back to 2011, when they defeated Sri Lanka under the captaincy of MS Dhoni.
Australia, on the other hand, has demonstrated resilience and adaptability throughout the tournament, showcasing their ability to peak at the right time. Their triumph serves as a reminder that while on-paper strength is important, it’s the ability to deliver when it matters most that ultimately determines victory.
