Gautam Gambhir predicts big on Pakistan skipper Babar Azam's batting

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir also predicts for Indian skipper Rohit Sharma.

ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India will see a lot of great batting performances due to the favourable conditions. From Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Steve Smith, Kane Williamson, and Joe Root to Babar Azam, most of the fabulous batters will be representing their national sides in the mega event. Indian captain had a marvellous 2019 World Cup in England, as he scored five centuries in 10 games. He is now leading the side to end India’s ICC title wait.

Former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a bold prediction about the successful batters in the upcoming tournament. Gambhir has picked Pakistan skipper Babar Azam along with Indian captain Rohit Sharma as ‘could be leading century makers’ in World Cup 2023. Babar Azam is currently the number one ODI batter, and Gambhir has picked him among the top performers in World Cup. Gambhir also looked impressed with Pakistan captain’s technique and style of batting.

'Babar can score 3-4 centuries'

Predicting a run-fest for Babar Azam, the former Indian opener said in Star Sports, “The kind of technique Babar Azam has, I think he will score three to four centuries for Pakistan in the upcoming tournament.” Gambhir also said that the current world number-one batter can gain momentum and set the tone for the entire tournament with his batting. Babar Azam is the only player who hasn’t missed even a single ODI since 2019 World Cup. Babar has played every ODI for Pakistan and remained a consistent batter.

Gautam Gambhir has also batted for Rohit Sharma and said that he is sure Rohit will be looking to use this opportunity well enough. He said, "With the kind of ability he has, India is playing the World Cup at home."We all know about Rohit Sharma’s record at home. He has three or four double centuries. So I am sure he will be looking forward to it, and he will be eager to turn it around for India.” Rohit was the leading runs scorer in 2019 World Cup. He scored 648 runs in 10 innings for India in the previous edition.

Apart from these two top-quality batters, there are a few great names who will be looking to use batting-friendly conditions in India. Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Aiden Markram, Quinton De Kock, Shubman Gill, and Jonny Bairstow are the other few options taking the lead for their teams in World Cup 2023. Along with great batting wickets, India will also offer good assistance to spinners in terms of conditions. World Cup 2023 curtain raiser will be played on October 5, when defending champions England will take on New Zealand at Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad.