Legendary Kapil Dev praises Indian team and Mohammed Siraj

Legendary Indian all-rounder and World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev on Monday was all praise for the Indian team and especially pacer Mohammed Siraj, who decimated Sri Lanka to help India win the eighth Asia Cup title.

• Speedster Mohammed Siraj’s fiery spell decimated Sri Lanka
• Opening duo Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan’s flawless partnership ensured India’s victory
• Kapil Dev impressed with the fantastic cricket played

“Do you think I need to say anything more than what people are saying. What a fantastic cricket being played. I think as a cricketer I would like to see much closer games towards the World Cup but I think as a player dismiss them for 30 runs and win. But as a spectator, I would say it would be better if the game is close,” Kapil Dev said at a media event.

Mohammed Siraj’s outstanding performance

Siraj took 6/21 in seven overs to bundle out Lankan Lions for 50 runs in just 15.2 overs.

India’s reliance on fast bowlers

Kapil Dev expressed his happiness about all 10 wickets being taken by Indian fast bowlers. He mentioned that India has become a strong team without relying solely on spinners.

Focus on qualifying for ICC Cricket World Cup

Kapil Dev emphasized the importance of India qualifying for the semi-final of the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup, which will be held in India from October 5.

“I think if we come in the top 4, that is more important. Our team is very good. We have to work very hard. I know about my team. I do not know about other teams…Indian team is ready to play and win the Championship. More than India winning the World Cup I want them to come out (to) dominate. I think that is what we look for in the future. I think the Indian team as far as I am concerned, are ready to play and win the World Cup,” he said.

Avoiding injuries and supporting the team

Kapil Dev highlighted the importance of staying away from injuries and supporting the team as a whole.

• Staying injury-free is crucial for team success
• A stroke of luck is required to avoid key player injuries
• Focus on the collective effort rather than individual performances

Lauding the young opener Shubman Gill

Kapil Dev praised young opener Shubman Gill for his consistent performances in the Asia Cup.

“Shubman Gill is a youngster we all can look up to. Very, very proud to have a player in Indian cricket of that ability,” he said.

Shubman Gill’s impressive run in 2023

Shubman Gill has been India’s best batter this year, with 1,586 runs in 34 international matches, including a double century in ODIs.