With less than 100 days to go, Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni sounded confident of defending the World Cup Down Under next year, saying the upcoming tour of Australia will be a great opportunity for his side to hone their skills.
Dhoni said that India's victory in the 2013 Champions Trophy in England reflects the side's calibre.
"Following the World Cup triumph in 2011, the India side won the 50-over ICC Champions Trophy in the United Kingdom. This reflects the calibre and talent of the side, and its ability to adapt and perform in any condition," Dhoni was quoted as saying in an ICC release.
The mega event kickstarts on February 14, while India will launch their title defence against Pakistan in Adelaide on February 15. Dhoni said the arduous tour of Australia – comprising four Tests and a tri-series also involving England – will ensure the team is fully prepared for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
"The tour to Australia in the lead up to the World Cup will be a good opportunity to hone our skills and, like all the sides participating in the tournament, be fully prepared for cricket's ultimate prize," Dhoni said.
"The World Cup is the biggest prize in cricket and to defend the title in Australia and New Zealand next year is a special opportunity. Like all the players, as well as millions of die-hard India cricket supporters around the globe, I look forward to the tournament with anticipation and excitement," the wicketkeeper added.
Australia captain Michael Clarke, who was part of the 2007 victorious team in the West Indies, said he was excited to play in front of the home crowd.
"The last time the ICC Cricket World Cup was played in Australia was 23 years ago, so to be able to play in one at home is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Clarke said.
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