With the ICC World Cup 2023 just around the corner, the cricketing world is buzzing with predictions and expectations. Among the hopefuls for a standout performance is former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who has made a significant prediction regarding Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam.
As the ODI extravaganza kicks off on October 5, all eyes are on the clash between traditional rivals India and Pakistan on October 14 in Ahmedabad. Gambhir, a two-time World Cup winner, anticipates a stellar tournament for both teams’ captains, Rohit Sharma and Babar Azam, especially with the bat.
Rohit Sharma boasts of an impressive record on home soil. He amassed 4148 runs at an average of 58.42 from 80 matches in India. Gambhir expressed his confidence in Rohit’s ability to make a mark in the World Cup.
“The type of talent that he (Rohit) possesses. Rohit Sharma’s home record is something that is well-known. He’s scored three to four double-hundreds. I’m confident he’ll be eager to turn things around for India and will look forward to it,” he said.
However, Gambhir’s most noteworthy prediction revolves around Pakistan’s Babar Azam. He said, “I predict Babar Azam will three or four centuries during this World Cup.”
Earlier, Gambhir had commended Babar Azam, noting his ‘different level of quality’ compared to his peers. “Babar Azam can set this World Cup on fire. I haven’t seen a lot of players with so much time to bat. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root are all there. In my opinion, Babar Azam has a different level of quality,” Gambhir remarked.
Pakistan are set to face the Netherlands in their opening match on October 6 in Hyderabad. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the spectacle, Gambhir’s predictions add an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming tournament.