India will be the team to beat in T20 World Cup: Kevin Pietersen

Former England skipper Kevin Pietersen has backed India’s chances in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup in March. Pietersen has also gone on to state that India will be the side to beat as they will be playing in their own backyard.

The 35-year-old controversial figure has also admitted that it will be a tight competition and forecasting a winner will not be easy. The Indian selectors will meet on Friday, the 6^th of February to pick a side for the Asia Cup as well as the T20 World Cup.  Experienced players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh and Ashish Nehra will also be on the fringes for probable selection.

“There are so many teams who have world class players who can change a game, and that’s what you need in a competition like that. But I’d say right now, India are the ones to beat,” Pietersen told the Times of India.

Pietersen has however singled out opener Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, stating that the Indians are blessed to have two ‘genuine superstars’ within their ranks.

“Not only are they a great side, but home advantage means a lot. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are genuine superstars of the game. I love watching these guys bat and I have a feeling they could be the ones to do the business.”

Kevin Pietersen top-scored in the recently concluded Big Bash League in Australia donning the Melbourne stars jersey. Therefore, it is no surprise that Pietersen is excited by the prospect of playing in the upcoming Indian Premier League.

“I honestly don’t have a preference. I’m just really excited at the prospect of playing in India again. I’ve made no secret that I love playing in India and the reception and warmth I receive from all the fantastic people over there is incredible. I’m just looking forward to hopefully getting back playing over there and catching up with some old friends as well.”

Kevin Pietersen has been included in the list of marquee players for the auction.