AB de Villiers predicts top run-scorer & wicket-taker of ODI World Cup, names India stars

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 is set to be hosted in India, spanning from October 5 to November 19. The tournament's opening game will feature a compelling match-up between England and New Zealand, reminiscent of the 2019 World Cup final. In anticipation of this eagerly awaited 50-over cricket extravaganza, former South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers has predicted the highest run-scorer and wicket-taker. 

3 things you need to know

• AB de Villiers retired from international cricket in 2018
• The South African scored 8765 (Test), 9577 (ODI), 1672 (T20I) runs
• De Villiers confirmed his retirement from all forms of cricket in 2021

Also Read: ICC Unveils Exact Scenario How Teams Can Qualify For 2023 ODI World Cup Semifinals

AB de Villiers predicts highest run-scorer and wicket-taker of ODI World Cup

Former South African captain AB de Villiers has expressed his belief that Indian opener Shubman Gill has the potential to claim the title of the leading run-scorer in the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. De Villiers noted that Gill's role as an opening batsman gives him a significant opportunity to excel and secure the top spot on the run charts during the prestigious tournament.

De Villiers made this observation in his recent YouTube video, highlighting Gill's exceptional form throughout the year. When it comes to predicting the highest wicket-taker in the World Cup, AB de Villiers has chosen Kuldeep Yadav as his top pick to lead the list. He also named Ravindra Jadeja and South Africa's Tabrez Shamsi as his picks. 

"Shubman Gill will be the highest run-scorer in the World Cup. He is in great form. I was always going to go with an opening batter at the very worst, a No. 3 batter. I think Shubman is in such form that it would be silly of me to overlook him. He is a great player and has a fantastic technique. He is playing at home in India, yes, there will be pressure but he is my pick," AB de Villiers said.

Also Read: WC 23: Irfan Pathan Names His 'top 4 For This World Cup In India', Leaves Out 'padosi'

Can Gill and Kuldeep deliver for India at the ODI World Cup?

Both Shubman Gill and Kuldeep Yadav have been in good form in the recent past. While Shubman has been scoring a lot of runs with the bat, Kuldeep made his comeback into the Indian side with a bang, finishing as the Player of the Series in the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023. They are both expected to play crucial roles for India in the World Cup.  

Image: PTI/AP