Former England cricket captain Eoin Morgan has made a bold prediction ahead of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in the Caribbean and the United States. Morgan, who notably led England to their first-ever 50-over World Cup victory in 2019, has tipped India as the favorites to clinch the T20 World Cup title. Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Morgan highlighted India’s recent history in ICC tournaments and their impressive squad depth as key reasons for his choice.
Morgan pointed out that India, nicknamed the Men in Blue, have experienced significant setbacks in recent ICC tournaments. They were knocked out in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022 and suffered a heartbreaking loss in the final of the same tournament held at home last year. According to Morgan, these disappointments will fuel India’s determination to set things right this time around. He emphasized that the Indian team has the capability and firepower to go all the way in the tournament.
“For me, the strongest side even with injuries throughout the tournament is India. Their strength and depth is absolutely incredible at the moment. They are favorites for me, the quality they have on paper, if they produce it I think they can beat anybody in the tournament,” Morgan declared. He further detailed his thoughts on India’s squad, expressing confidence in their balance and the presence of key players who could make a significant difference.
Morgan’s analysis extended to team selection, where he expressed delight over the inclusion of Yuzvendra Chahal. “I’m delighted Yuzvendra Chahal is within their squad. People in the public and in the media were unsure about his selection. For me, he is an incredible bowler, one of the best wrist spinners in the world here and now, and Kuldeep’s form as well comes into it,” he stated. Morgan’s endorsement of Chahal underscores the bowler’s importance, especially given the different playing conditions expected during the World Cup in the Caribbean and the United States.
However, Morgan did have some reservations about certain selection choices. He voiced his preference for including Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal.
. “The only decision I would have had differently and if I was selecting the squad, I would have Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal,” he mentioned. Morgan elaborated on his reasoning, stating that even if Gill would have remained on the bench, his leadership qualities would be invaluable in a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup. “You need as many leaders in the squad as possible in big tournaments like these,” he added.
India’s struggle to secure an ICC title since their Champions Trophy win in 2013 has been a topic of much discussion. They’ve often come close, only to falter at crucial junctures like the finals or the semi-finals. Despite this, Morgan remains optimistic about India’s chances in the upcoming T20 World Cup. He believes that the selected squad is well-rounded and capable of turning around their fortunes.
Morgan’s insights into the tactical aspects of the game also highlight why he believes India could excel in the World Cup. “I think they can because they have got to a stage now where Adelaide will hurt but more recently the World Cup at home against Australia in front of 125 thousand Indian fans,” he said. He further emphasized the role India’s spinners could play and how the team’s batting prowess, especially their ability to adapt to slower wickets, could be a game-changer.
Speaking of key players, Morgan singled out Shivam Dube as someone who could light up the tournament. “Somebody like a Shivam Dube has to play. He is an incredible player in his own right but I think he will set this World Cup alight,” Morgan asserted. This statement highlights the expectations and the spotlight on Dube, who will be looking to make a significant impact.
As cricket enthusiasts around the world gear up for the ninth edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Eoin Morgan’s endorsement adds an intriguing layer of anticipation. His observations about India’s strength, depth, and key players offer a compelling perspective on why he believes they are the team to beat. Whether India manages to translate this potential into a World Cup victory remains to be seen, but for now, they have the backing of one of cricket’s most respected voices.
