Rohit Sharma’s Confidence and India’s Aspirations at ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023

The excitement is building as the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, set to be hosted by India. In the midst of this anticipation, India’s skipper, Rohit Sharma, shared his thoughts on the team’s preparations and the unique pressures of hosting an ODI World Cup event.

Rohit Sharma is no stranger to the weight of expectations that come with leading the Indian cricket team, especially on home soil. With two World Cup victories in India’s cricket history, in 1983 and 2011, the hopes of a nation rest on their shoulders as they strive for a third title.

Despite being the sole host for this tournament, India has previously co-hosted the World Cup on three occasions, in 1987, 1996, and 2011. These experiences, while mixed in terms of results, have provided valuable lessons for the Indian team.

In 1987 ODI World Cup, India reached the semi-finals but fell short against England. In 1996, heartbreak awaited them at Eden Gardens as they were unable to progress beyond the semi-finals, losing to Sri Lanka. However, 2011 was a different story altogether, with India emerging as champions, making a nation proud.

Speaking at the ICC Captains’ call just a day before the start of the World Cup, Rohit Sharma said, “I’ve seen the history of the World Cup being played and the people who have taken part in this World Cup. So I’m quite lucky to be leading this team into this World Cup. It’s quite exciting at the same time.”

“All these guys are quite used to going through that pressure, whether it’s playing India or away from India, pressure is something that is not going to leave a sportsman.”

Rohit said, “Pressure is something that is not going to leave a sportsman. As long as you play the sport, the pressure is always going to be there. So keep that aside, focus on the job at hand. It’s very easy to say that, but it’s going to be tough. But I’m sure, we prepared really well and as long as you prepare really well, that gives you a lot of confidence going into any game.”

One intriguing aspect of the last three World Cups is that the host nations, India (2011), Australia (2015), and England (2019), emerged victorious. While some might see this as a trend to follow, Rohit Sharma remains grounded, stating, “Not thinking too much about it. Honestly, (while) it has happened in the last three editions of the World Cup, but all I can say is we’re going to try our best, give it our best and enjoy the tournament.”

The format of the World Cup emphasizes taking each game as it comes, and Rohit Sharma recognizes this. He emphasizes the importance of staying focused on one match at a time, acknowledging the long and challenging nature of the tournament.

India’s preparations leading up to the World Cup were marked by two washed-out warm-up fixtures, which might have disrupted their rhythm. However, their first real test awaits them on October 8th when they face Australia in Chennai.

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As the countdown to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 begins, India under the leadership of Rohit Sharma is poised to embark on a journey that carries the hopes and dreams of millions. The pressure will be immense, but with meticulous preparation and a focus on the task at hand, India aims to add another glorious chapter to its cricketing history.