India will head into the World Cup as defending champions, but a recent Test series loss against Australia has raised doubts over Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led side’s ability to defend the title.
Former Australia batsman, Michael Hussey insisted that despite losing the Test series India shouldn’t be underestimated as they are a good enough side. Hussey added that one-day cricket is a different ball game altogether and India are a very strong side in the limited-overs format.
“The big positive for India is that they have already been in Australia for the last two months,” Hussey said. “They are now well versed with the conditions here, the pace and bounce of pitches. They also have a tri-series coming up involving England.”
“So they have a good run before the World Cup starts and nobody should underestimate them because of the Test results.”
“Don’t read too much into the 2-0 scoreline because not only did India compete hard in the Test series but they are a completely different outfit in limited-overs,” he added. “They are very confident in that mode.”
The reigning champions will open their campaign against archrivals Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval on February 15, which will be followed by a game against South Africa on February 22.
