‘When MS Dhoni was captain back in 2011’ - Eoin Morgan picks his favourites for ODI World Cup 2023

Eoin Morgan (Source- Twitter)

Former England skipper Eoin Morgan is considered the best white ball skipper of all time with his impressive record, under his leadership England’s side won the last edition 50 over format World Cup. ODI World Cup 2023 is just around the corner as India is set to host the prestigious event in October-November, Morgan before the marquee event predicted his four teams to win the 50-over WC. 

It is pertinent to mention that England's side won the ODI WC 2019 after beating New Zealand in a super over, the most dramatic World Cup final till now. Both the finalist score were tied in super overs but the winner was decided on boundary count. It was a heartbreaking moment for Kiwi fans as they lost the finals in back-to-back 50 over World Cups. 

I have no doubt England will be there: Eoin Morgan

“When it comes to the business end of the tournament, I have no doubt England will be there, I have no doubt India will be there. And the other teams I would probably see potentially lifting the trophy are Australia and Pakistan, two very very strong teams, and two contenders when it comes to big competitions,” said Morgan in an interview with WION. 

“They have a lot of talent to work with. Playing cricket in India, particularly the 50-over format, you need to have all bases covered, and I would say those teams do,” he further added. 

Interestingly India lifted the trophy after beating Sri Lanka in the 2011 edition, it was the second time Men in Blue lifted the trophy, this time they will be looking to lift the trophy for the third time. The Indian side has struggled to lift the ICC title after winning the Champions Trophy in 2013 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. 

“They’re an excellent cricket team that I believe will be favourites going into the World Cup. You don’t have to rewind the clock back that far when MS Dhoni was captain back in 2011, and that magical moment for all Indian fans when he hit that ball over long-on for six, and India lifted the trophy,” concluded the former England skipper. 

However, Eoin Morgan retired from an international career in July, last year, but he has not restricted himself from playing in leagues all over the world. The 36-year-old is currently playing in the ZimAfro T10 league. If we look at the interesting stats from the last three editions of the 50-over World Cup, the winner has been the host nation. So India will have the best opportunity this time in their home conditions to end the drought of the ICC title since 2013.