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As the ICC World Cup 2023 draws closer, the anticipation and excitement surrounding the tournament are reaching new heights. The Indian cricket team, affectionately known as the Men in Blue, is considered one of the favorites to clinch the coveted title. Despite their previous disappointments since their triumph in 2013, off-spinner R Ashwin firmly believes that Team India has what it takes to emerge victorious in the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Since their triumph in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy under the captaincy of MS Dhoni, the Indian cricket team has struggled to replicate their success in ICC tournaments across formats. This title drought has led many to question their ability to clinch the ODI World Cup 2023. However, considering the tournament will be held in their home country, India has a golden opportunity to break this dry spell and reignite their winning momentum.
In a YouTube video, R Ashwin shared his thoughts on India's prospects in the ODI World Cup 2023. He acknowledged the strength of the Indian team and dismissed the notion that answering the question of India winning the title is ridiculous. Ashwin stated, "If you ask me, any cricket match starts 50:50. But India do start as favorites ahead of this 2023 World Cup."
The off-spinner pointed out that in the 2019 World Cup, India entered as strong favorites but couldn't claim the title. He emphasized that in every ICC event, all participating teams have an equal chance of success. However, he firmly believes that India has a great opportunity this time around to clinch the trophy, barring a few crucial factors.
Ashwin highlighted a crucial factor that could influence the outcome of matches in the ODI World Cup 2023—the dew factor. He expressed his desire for games to start around 12:30 PM to minimize the impact of dew on the game.
Also Read: ODI Cricket World Cup Winners List From 1975 to 2023
The tournament will be held in October, and Ashwin questioned the likelihood of dew during this period, as historically, the World Cup has not taken place during that time. He recalled that the 2011 edition took place just before the summer, starting in February and ending in the first week of April, followed by the IPL that year.
With the ODI World Cup 2023 fast approaching, the question of whether India can break their ICC title drought lingers in the minds of cricket enthusiasts. R Ashwin's belief in the strength of the Indian team, coupled with their status as favorites, presents a promising outlook for Team India's chances in the tournament.
While challenges and uncertainties exist, the Men in Blue have a significant opportunity to triumph on home soil and bring glory to a cricket-crazy nation hungry for success. As fans eagerly await the tournament's commencement, the prospect of India winning the ODI World Cup 2023 remains an exciting and captivating storyline in the world of cricket.
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