Former Coach Believes India’s Ruthless Approach Will Lead to Convincing Victory
Lalchand Rajput, the former manager of India’s first-ever T20 World Cup squad in 2007, has expressed his belief that the current Indian cricket team is poised to claim another major ICC trophy. Almost 18 years after leading the young Indian squad to a historic victory in the inaugural T20 World Cup, Rajput is confident that this team, brimming with accomplished players, will dominate the ongoing Champions Trophy.
A Ruthless and Dominant Team
Rajput, who now serves as the head coach of the UAE cricket team, recently spoke about India’s fierce determination to win every match. Reflecting on the squad’s attitude, Rajput stated, “This Indian team looks ruthless. They try to dominate and win every game. They don’t want to give the opponents a chance to come back into the game. That is the attitude; and the way they are playing, I think they should win the Champions Trophy convincingly.”
Rajput also praised Virat Kohli’s exceptional form, noting that his 51st ODI century against Pakistan in Dubai last Sunday was a testament to his class. Rajput anticipates that Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, will step up next with a big performance in upcoming matches. “Virat got a hundred, all boxes are ticked. Now it’s only up to Rohit to get a big hundred,” he said.
Kohli’s Big-Match Temperament on Display
For Rajput, Kohli’s performance was a clear demonstration of his big-match temperament. “I think Virat played a fantastic innings, you know, and he showed his class. We always think of King Kohli, I think he proved again. Big match, big-match temperament, big-match player,” he added.
While praising India’s strong start in the Champions Trophy, Rajput emphasized the need for the team to remain focused. India’s victories over Pakistan and Bangladesh were convincing, but Rajput warned against complacency.
Staying Focused and Avoiding Complacency
“See, in cricket, you cannot take it lightly. Every game is important because if you take one or few overs lightly, that can change the game as well. So we have got to be at our best every time. We don’t want to relax at any moment,” Rajput cautioned.
He also pointed out that although India’s two victories were comfortable, New Zealand should not be underestimated in their upcoming final group-stage encounter. “New Zealand is a better team (than Pakistan and Bangladesh); they have also won both the games and their morale is also high,” Rajput noted.
Maintaining Momentum for Success
Looking ahead to the game against New Zealand, which has little significance as both teams have already secured semi-final spots, Rajput recommended maintaining the same lineup. He emphasized that consistency and momentum are key. “I don’t think they will try anything (new) because when the team is doing well, you go with the same momentum. Unless there is some injury, or somebody wants to be rested, but I don’t think there will be any change,” Rajput explained.
Rajput believes that the management will likely continue with the winning team unless necessary adjustments are required. “But I would always say that you always continue with the winning team,” he concluded.
As India prepares for its final group-stage match, the team remains a strong contender for the Champions Trophy, with Rajput’s confidence adding to the growing optimism surrounding the squad’s prospects.
