The Kolkata Knight Riders claimed a third title by defeating Sunrisers Hyderabad on Sunday in Chennai as the 2024 Indian Premier League was concluded. Pakistan legendary Cricketer Wasim Akram has drawn attention to the fact that no team India players featured in the finale which he termed as “blessing in disguise” for Indian Cricket ahead of T20 World Cup.
According to Akram who spoke to Sportskeeda, this lack of Indian representation at IPL will allow them time for proper preparation towards WC without much exhaustion from lengthy tournament.
“Well, now at least none of them will have to say that they are tired. They were thinking ahead, what is the point of reaching the final, India is more important, we will play for the country. But it could be a blessing in disguise for India,” explained Akram. The former cricketer further said that he was concerned about player fatigue because of tight IPL schedules and therefore saw an advantage when their counterparts can get some rest before going into competition mode.
“I mentioned last time that I’m worried about them being tired and they would be tired too, no doubt about it. Even America is not their road. I think Pakistan’s first match is Dallas if I remember. Now they’ll go there and play one or two practice matches. It’s okay na? T20 hai yaar bachche recover ho jayenge abhi fitness level bhot high hai ye abhi koi tension nahi honi chahiye”, added Wasim.
The squad from India has already landed in New York City where they are preparing themselves for the forthcoming ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup; this includes having a friendly against Bangladesh on June 1st at Nassau County. The early focus on preparation is expected to give India a better chance this time around.
Rohit Sharma’s Team India will kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 in New York, with the tournament scheduled to begin on June 2. India is expected to be better prepared for this year’s T20 World Cup because none of their players featured in the IPL final according to Akram who thinks this could spell a difference.
