Will Team India have a home advantage during upcoming ODI World Cup? Ex-head coach answers

The ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 is all set to be held in India later this year. During the 2011 ICC World Cup, the Indian cricket team, led by MS Dhoni, clinched the title on home soil. In the same tournament, Pakistan made it to the semifinals and Sri Lanka emerged as the runners-up, displaying the domination of Asian teams in the continent. As the 2023 edition of the World Cup returns to India, the team captained by Rohit Sharma is seen as a strong contender. 

3 things you need to know

• The upcoming ODI World Cup will be held in India in October-November
• England are defending champions as they won the 2019 World Cup at home
• The last three World Cups have been won by the home team

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Greg Chappell opens up on Team India's chances in ODI World Cup 2023

Greg Chappell, the former head coach of the Indian team, who had a tumultuous tenure, advises cricket enthusiasts to maintain a balanced outlook. Chappell, in a recent interview, acknowledged the significant advantage of playing at home for India, but he cautioned against underestimating the challenges due to shifting dynamics in global cricket.

"Home advantage makes a huge difference, and I am very sure India will start favourites on home soil. When I was coach of India, one thing I observed was that the Indians are very comfortable in dealing with any challenges thrown at them by any opposition at home. It was evident to me sitting inside the Indian change room and looking out. It has not changed, and this Indian team under Rohit [Sharma] and Rahul [Dravid] is a very good one. I think they have a good chance in home conditions," Chappell told Revsportz.

"Having said that, winning these tournaments is never easy. So I would urge caution if you are an Indian fan. Be cautiously optimistic. While India will have a very good chance, if things don't go your way, you should not be heartbroken for it can happen in sport. Some of the other teams like Australia and England are very good teams, and with the IPL, the aura of the conditions have been somewhat demystified over time," he added.

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The 2023 ODI World Cup is scheduled to be held across 10 venues in India. The tournament will begin with a rematch between the last edition's finalists - England and New Zealand on October 5. India will play their opening match against Australia in Chennai on October 8. The highly-anticipated match between India and Pakistan will be played in Ahmedabad on October 14. The final is slated to take place at Narendra Modi Stadium on November 19. 

Image: AP