We will need absolute road-like pitches when the ODI World Cup happens: Aakash Chopra

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra opined that the side will require flat batting surfaces to prevail in the 2023 ODI World Cup. The statements come after the Men in Blue were defeated at the hands of Australia by 21 runs in the third and final ODI match at the M.A Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday, March 22.

Reflecting on the loss, Aakash took into consideration the bigger picture- the ODI World Cup - and stated that the side requires flat surfaces to triumph in the marquee event. The cricketer turned broadcaster further added that the bowling-friendly conditions aided the rival side as team India struggled in the run chase.

"Plenty of questions to ponder. A huge takeaway for me is that we will need absolute road-like pitches when the World Cup happens because we neither need seaming nor turning tracks. When the ball was swinging, we faced difficulties. We lost five wickets while chasing 180 once and were bowled out for 117 the second time. When the ball turned, we couldn't chase a 270-run total,” Aakash said in his YouTube video.

When you are not the No. 1, the heart pains: Aakash Chopra

Though the Men in Blue put up a fight and took the match till the final over, the Aussie bowling unit got the job done by getting the breakthroughs. It is worth mentioning that Adam Zampa recorded a sensational four-wicket haul which tilted the momentum in their favour and led to Australia’s series win. Following the win, Steve Smith and Co. dislodged India at the top of the ICC ODI rankings.

"I am heartbroken because we are no longer the No. 1 ODI team in the world. A lot of people say that the ICC rankings don't have any significance but when you are not the No. 1, the heart pains,” added Aakash after Australia became No.1 in the ICC Rankings.

Adding to this, team India lost their first international series at home after four years. During this period, the Men in Blue claimed wins in 24 series and obtained two draws.