As the fever of the ODI World Cup 2023 catches on, a piece of news regarding separate Indian cricket team's jersey for the clash against Pakistan has been making rounds in media circles. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has addressed these reports, providing clarity on the matter.
The epic clash between India and its arch-rival, Pakistan, is slated for October 14 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Leading up to the big game between arch-rivals, speculations surged after reports hinted that the Indian team might don a saffron jersey for this high-profile encounter.
Fueling these rumors further was the sight of the Indian team practicing in saffron-colored training kits. The narrative further evolved, suggesting that this alternative kit would later be auctioned to raise funds for UNESCO.
However, cutting through the growing rumours, BCCI treasurer Ashish Shelar stepped forward and rubbished the report right away. Quoting his statement as reported by the Indian Express, he mentioned:
“We categorically dismiss the media reports that Team India will be donning an alternative match kit against Pakistan. These reports are absolutely baseless and a work of someone’s imagination. The Men in Blue will sport India colours – Blue at ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.”
Notably, in the 2019 World Cup, the Indian team did sport a different jersey during their match against England. All participating teams then had home and away jerseys, which led to India wearing a saffron-colored outfit against the English side. It's essential to understand that any such change in jersey requires official approval from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Shifting focus from the jersey controversy to the India versus Australia World Cup opener. India are presently locking horns with Australia in the fifth game at the historic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Australian captain Pat Cummins opted to bat first after winning the toss on a day characterized by the bright Chennai sun.
The Indian bowling attack, showcasing their prowess, has put the Australian side under pressure. Indian spinners - the trio of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravichandran Ashwin - have delivered a commendable performance, to fold Ausralian innings to paltry 199. The onus is now on Indian batters to chase down the total without breaking the sweat and kick off their World Cup campaign on a winning note.
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