Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif emphasised that the 2024 T20 World Cup marks the final opportunity for star players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to secure the coveted trophy. Mohammad Kaif’s remarks underscore the significance of this tournament for the duo, as they aim to fulfil expectations set by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and cricket fans alike.
Mohammad Kaif’s journey began at the U-19 level, where he captained the victorious Indian team in the 2000 Under-19 World Cup. His performances there, particularly his leadership qualities, paved the way for his selection into the national team. Kaif’s career highlight was arguably his unbeaten 87 alongside Yuvraj Singh in the NatWest Trophy final at Lord’s in 2002. This fighting partnership helped India achieve a historic comeback victory against England. Beyond batting, Kaif was a phenomenal fielder. He revolutionised the concept of fielding in the Indian team, bringing agility, anticipation, and exceptional catching skills to the forefront.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are two titans of Indian cricket. Both have tasted World Cup glory, but not as the leading men. Rohit was part of the victorious 2007 T20 World Cup squad under Dhoni, while Kohli was a member of the 2011 ODI World Cup champions under Dhoni’s captaincy. However, a major ICC trophy as a captain or leading figure has eluded them so far. This makes the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup a crucial event for both. It’s potentially their last chance to lift a World Cup trophy at their peak and solidify their legendary status in Indian cricket.
What Mohammad Kaif Said
With the countdown to the highly anticipated tournament underway, Kaif asserts that the forthcoming T20 World Cup may represent the final chance for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to clinch another significant title.
He said,
“Rohit Sharma knows he isn’t going to play for too long now. Just two to three years more. Same with Virat Kohli,” Kaif said on Star Sports. “So this is the last chance for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. They lost the World Cup final in Ahmedabad. They played as if they had the cup snatched away from them. Hearts were broken and fans were devastated,”
Last year, India emerged as the clear frontrunners to claim victory in the ODI World Cup on home soil. Dominating every match en route to the final, they faced an unexpected setback against Australia in a packed Narendra Modi Stadium. Despite stellar performances from Kohli and Rohit, they fell short of steering the team to victory in the crucial final match.
India’s Biggest Challange According to Mohammad Kaif
Mohammad Kaif added that India’s group stage appears favourable, projecting a smooth path to the semi-finals. However, he believes the semi-final and final will present the most formidable tests for the Men in Blue.
Rohit Sharma’s squad finds themselves in Group A alongside Pakistan, Canada, Ireland, and co-hosts USA.
Kaif added,
“India hardly have competition in the group stage. There are only two main matches – the semi-final and the final. Are you ready for those two days? That’s the biggest test for Rohit Sharma,”
India will kick off their T20 WC journey against Ireland in New York on June 5.
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