Former New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming has backed India as the strong contenders for the ICC World Cup next year considering their brilliant show in the Asia Cup.
Meanwhile, India are yet to lose a match in the ongoing six-nation tournament. However, Afghanistan made their work harder in the dead rubber extending it to a thrilling tie.
Speaking to Mail Today, Stephen Fleming ascertained that India have a good squad depth to win the mega event. However, he feels humid conditions in England can prove to be a barrier to their title credentials.
æ”They look like a strong side and might also be the favourites but it’s a hot English summer next year and it would really be injuries to Bhuvi (Bhuvneshwar Kumar) or (Jasprit) Bumrah that you need to be concerned about. So you need to develop the pace better and replacement players just in case. It will be summer in England and you might need some seam bowling,” the Kiwi said.
The 45-year-old Stephen Fleming added with the return of Ravindra Jadeja and Ambati Rayudu, the men in blues looks in good shape.
“But with (Ravindra) Jadeja coming in with a good performance and (Ambati) Rayudu batting well, I think India is in good shape. I believe other than India, New Zealand, Australia and hosts England are my choices to win the World Cup,” he added.
England will host the next edition of the World Cup starting from May 30.
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