Former India skipper Kapil Dev on Thursday put his money on the men-in-blue to lift the ICC Champions Trophy silverware next month in England but also said it depends on how they execute their plans during the June 1 to 18 event
Former Indian Cricket Caption Kapil Dev strikes a pose with a wax figure of himself after unveiling the statue at Madame Tussauds Delhi, in New Delhi on Thursday.PTI Photo by Manvender Vashist. Pic/PTI
New Delhi: Former India skipper Kapil Dev on Thursday put his money on the men-in-blue to lift the ICC Champions Trophy silverware next month in England but also said it depends on how they execute their plans during the June 1 to 18 event.
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The 1983 World Cup-winning captain said the team needs to put up a collective effort to come out victorious in the marquee International Cricket Council (ICC) tournament.
"The Indian team is looking good. They have been playing well for the last five years but it all depends on how well they apply themselves on that day," the 58-year-old said after attending the unveiling of his wax statue at Madame Tussauds here.
Former Indian Cricket Caption Kapil Dev addressing the audience after unveiling a wax statue of himself at Madame Tussauds Delhi, in New Delhi on Thursday.PTI Photo by Manvender Vashist. Pic/PTI
"We definitely have the capability to win. But how they maintain themselves and put pressure on the opponent will be the key," he added.
Kapil also admitted that no team can be taken lightly in the upcoming 50-over tournament, and hosts England will be the hardest to face.
"Every team will be tough to beat. You can't rule out any team. I think England will be very tough playing in England. They know the conditions better than any other team," he said.
Commenting on the much-awaited India-Pakistan clash at Edgbaston on June 4, the former all-rounder said although India seem to have the upper hand on paper, the outcome will depend on whoever plays better cricket on that particular day.
"I think on that given day whoever will play well will win the clash. On paper, India look far better at this stage," he said.
Though India can boast of an all-win record in World Cups (20 and 50 overs), having beaten Pakistan every time in the 11 matches they have met, the green brigade holds the upper hand in Champions Trophy, with a 2-1 head-to-head record.
Kapil preferred to remain neutral on the selection of the India squad for the Champions Trophy saying: "It is unfair for me to criticise the selectors. They have done a good job. My opinion may be different but it is not my job to criticise them."
The former captain also lauded the way the young players in the squad are shaping up with impressive performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).
"The young boys are looking very good. I am really delighted to see how Bhuvneshwar Kumar has come back and bowled so well. And hats-off to (Jasprit) Bumrah. He has taken the pressure really well. He has done really well," the legendary cricketer added.
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