The ODI World Cup 2023 has reached its midway point, with all participating teams having completed five matches each. Hosts India currently stand at the summit of the points table, boasting an undefeated record with five victories to their name.
In this fiercely competitive cricketing extravaganza, top-order batters have been consistently impressive, with as many as five stars already breaching the 300-run mark. Simultaneously, the tournament has witnessed remarkable performances from the bowlers.
Shane Watson’s bold prediction
Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, a legendary figure in the world of cricket, has made a bold prediction about the Player of the Tournament. Watson has thrown his weight behind the Indian skipper, Rohit Sharma, as the most deserving candidate for this prestigious accolade in the ongoing multi-team event.
“According to me, I think the Player of the Tournament is going to be Rohit Sharma,” said Watson on Star Sports.
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Watson explains the reason of his choice
Watson’s endorsement of Rohit is founded on the standout performances that have characterized the Indian captain’s World Cup campaign thus far. In five matches, the right-handed batter has already notched up one century and a half-century, setting the tournament ablaze by taking on some of the world’s most formidable bowlers right from the outset. His explosive batting style has consistently propelled India to formidable starts in their run chases.
With a remarkable tally of 311 runs in five matches, Rohit ranks as the fifth-leading run-scorer in the ODI World Cup 2023. Watson contended that Rohit’s impact on the tournament has been truly exceptional, making him the prime contender for the coveted Player of the Tournament award.
“He has just set the tournament alive so far. It’s been phenomenal to watch him bat the way he has. Take the game from ball one against the best bowlers in the world. And I just believe he is going to continue on such a rich vein of form until the end of the tournament. So he, for me, is the number one,” added Watson.
