Participating in warm-up matches is crucial for preparing a team with the correct mindset and offering valuable match practice in anticipation of a significant event like the ODI World Cup. As the 2023 ODI World Cup approaches, all the teams competing in the tournament have engaged in warm-up matches, except for India, to ensure they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
India, as the host nation, had planned to participate in two warm-up matches against England and the Netherlands, which were set to take place in Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram. Unfortunately, persistent rain at both venues on the scheduled match days resulted in the abandonment of these two preparatory games without any deliveries bowled.
While every other team in the competition had the opportunity to bat and bowl in at least one of their warm-up games, India found themselves as the only team that didn’t participate in either of these matches. Although the team may have desired some on-field action just before their opening match against Australia on October 8, this situation shouldn’t raise significant concerns for the side.
On that note, let’s explore three compelling reasons why India shouldn’t be overly worried despite the two washed-out fixtures in the 2023 ODI World Cup warm-ups.
#3 No necessity to adjust to the conditions
As the exclusive host nation of this prestigious tournament, the Indian team won’t face the same need to acclimatize to the conditions as the other nine participating teams. Each of the 15 players selected for the Indian team boasts extensive experience playing in Indian conditions and is already well-accustomed to competing across the country.
Warm-up fixtures are typically seen as chances for visiting teams to familiarize themselves with the conditions where the tournament is being held. Therefore, as the hosts, India has one less task to worry about.
#2 Indian players have gained sufficient match experience
The Indian management has been carefully strategizing how to handle the workload of Indian players in the midst of a hectic cricket schedule. Over the past year or two, we’ve witnessed several key Indian players being rested for certain bilateral series.
Nevertheless, India’s core group has consistently competed together in their last two ODI assignments: the 2023 Asia Cup and the three ODIs against Australia. The Indian team has forged strong bonds and gained invaluable on-field experience, partly due to their successful Asia Cup campaign and the 2-1 series victory over Australia.
It’s worth noting that the scheduling of the three-match ODI series against Australia initially faced criticism as it concluded just two days before the ODI World Cup warm-up matches began. However, this series has turned out to be a blessing for the Indian squad, as it eliminates concerns about the washed-out warm-ups.
#1 India has checked off nearly every requirement on their World Cup preparation list
India’s World Cup preparations have been exemplary, with strong showings in the Asia Cup 2023 and ODIs against Australia. At the start of September, questions lingered over player form and team combinations, but by month’s end, India had resolved most issues. The Asia Cup featured centuries from KL Rahul and Virat Kohli, while the bowling unit excelled.
In subsequent ODIs against Australia, Suryakumar Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Shreyas Iyer shone, solidifying India’s prospects. The only lingering concern is Ravindra Jadeja’s batting form, but his experience makes him a valuable asset.
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