Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) experienced batsman Robin Uthappa believes the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) will be the perfect platform for the players who are going to represent their respective countries in the ICC World Cup. Meanwhile, the premier tournament will commence soon after the culmination of the cash-rich league.
Recovery is the key
However, the main concerns will be managing the workload amidst the tight schedule. Recently, Indian skipper Virat Kohli recently said that the players need to be smart in managing their workload. However, Kolkata Knight Riders star Robin Uthappa has an interesting take on this topic as he feels the recovery of the players after each game in the IPL is going to be more critical than their workload in the tournament ahead of the World Cup.
Uthappa feels bowling four overs for pacers and spinners will not be a big issue for international players unless they are carrying an injury during the tournament. However, the recovery will be key in the middle of a tight schedule.
“More than balancing the workload, I think managing their recovery is going to be more important. Four overs for fast bowlers and spinners are not going to make a big dent in their bodies unless they are carrying an injury or have a niggle during the course of the tournament.
“If they are fit through the season then managing the recovery becomes more important. Specially given how we travel during the IPL. Those are the aspects that are important for people who are going to be playing for their country in the World Cup,” Robin Uthappa told India Today.
Perfect platform to prepare
Besides, Robin Uthappa feels the upcoming T20 tournament will be an ideal breeding ground for the World Cup probable to get ready for the showpiece event. IPL will also provide an opportunity for the players to strengthen their case for a World Cup berth.
The pinnacle event will start from May 30 with England taking on South Africa at the Lords. On the other hand, India will begin their campaign on June 5 against the Proteas. The final of the tournament will be on July 14.
“Because you’re going to be playing a 50-over World Cup and you will be bowling 4 overs here in the IPL and batting for just 20 overs. I think it’s a good preparation grading up to the World Cup, given how cricket is played today… It’s a good preparation. If players can focus on their recovery I don’t think they will have any problems going into the World Cup,” Robin Uthappa concluded.