Latest Cricket News: Team India’s campaign in the recently-commenced World Cup 2023 is all set to get underway tomorrow (October 8) in Chennai. India, eyeing a winning start, will take on Australia in the exact Chennai affair, which is likely to be attended by a packed crowd. Both India and Australia reached Chennai well in time before undergoing two intense training sessions ahead of the marquee fixture.

Being the hosts of the World Cup 2023, India are heading into the competition with the tag of favorites. The Rohit Sharma-led side has appeared in red-hot form in recent times and a stellar outing from them is expected in the global event. Not long ago, India clinched the Asia Cup 2023 title and followed it up with a 2-1 ODI series victory over Australia.

Latest Cricket News: Rohit Sharma Not A Captaincy Material, Reckons Shoaib Akhtar

Meanwhile, veteran Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has raised questions over Rohit Sharma’s India captaincy. Akhtar spoke highly of Sharma’s batting abilities, however, did not appear impressed with his captaincy. The 48-year-old pointed out Sharma’s tendency to panic in crunch situations before comparing him with teammate Virat Kohli.

“I may sound a bit harsh here, but I don’t think Rohit Sharma should have taken up India’s captaincy. He panics at times during captaincy. He is a more talented batter than Virat Kohli, but was he made for captaincy? Does he react well in situations?” said Shoaib Akhtar

“These are the questions that keep coming to my mind. You should also be questioning it. However, there is no doubt that Rohit has the ability to win this World Cup as captain. He has the home advantage and a good team,” Akhtar added

Rohit Sharma, regardless, has produced exceptional results as India’s captain across formats. Sharma has captained the national side in 34 ODI affairs and has managed to register as many as 24 victories. The 36-year-old further has 39 wins to his name while leading team India in 51 T20I fixtures. The Mumbaikar will be donning the captain’s hat in the World Cup 2023, which will see his captaincy skills being tested relentlessly.