'Aids but doesn't guarantee success' - Matthew Hayden on IPL's role in overseas players' World Cup 2023 preparations

Matthew Hayden, the former Australian opener, believes that participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) can provide valuable experience for overseas players as they prepare for the highly anticipated World Cup in 2023. However, Hayden also emphasizes that the IPL experience alone may not be the sole determining factor for success in the tournament.

Scheduled to take place in India later this year, the 13th edition of the ODI World Cup will see ten teams competing in a round-robin format during the league phase, with the top four teams advancing to the semi-finals. With such high stakes, players are seeking ways to gain an edge, and the IPL experience is seen as a valuable asset.

In a conversation with Star Sports, Hayden was asked about the impact of the IPL experience on overseas players in the World Cup. responded by saying,

"I do believe that it helps in terms of preparation, but it doesn't guarantee success as conditions can vary on the day."

This statement highlights the importance of adaptability and the need to be ready for any challenges that may arise during the World Cup for all teams. Hayden further elaborated on the key factors that may define a team's prospects in the tournament. He emphasized the significance of spin bowling, saying: 

"I think the key match-ups in this World Cup will revolve around spin-bowling resources. When you play in India, you need to either bowl spin exceptionally well or have the skills to play spin proficiently." 

The World Cup matches will be held across ten cities, with each venue hosting a maximum of five games. While most pitches are expected to be batting-friendly, some venues like Chennai, Delhi, and Lucknow may provide additional assistance to spinners, further emphasizing the importance of spin skills.

As the World Cup approaches, players from all teams will be striving to sharpen their skills and strategies to conquer the challenges that await them on the Indian pitches. The tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of cricketing talent and a test of the players' abilities in diverse playing conditions, as stated by Hayden.