There are no big teams in World Cup, whenever you start focusing only on bigger teams, an upset happens: Virat Kohli

As the excitement builds for the highly anticipated clash between India and Bangladesh at the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, some of the game's biggest stars have weighed in on the significance of key players in the upcoming match. In the latest interview, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al-Hasan, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya, and the bowling coach of the Bangladesh cricket team Allan Donald, shared their thoughts and insights on their respective opponents.

Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, Indian cricketer Virat Kohli spoke on the qualities of Bangladesh captain Shakib Al-Hasan ahead of their match at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. He said, “Over the years, I’ve played a lot against him. He’s got amazing control. He’s a very experienced bowler. He bowls very well with the new ball, knows how to deceive the batsman, and is also very economical. You have to play your best against all these bowlers, and if you aren't able to, these bowlers are able to create pressure and increase the chances of getting you out. There are no big teams in the World Cup. Whenever you start focusing only on bigger teams, an upset happens.”

Bangladesh cricketer Shakib Al-Hasan spoke on the value of Virat Kohli’s wicket. He said, “He’s a special batsman, probably the best batsman in the modern era. I think I’m lucky to get him out 5 times. Of course, it will give me great pleasure, taking his wicket.”

India all-rounder Hardik Pandya also spoke about the value of Shakib Al-Hasan. He said, “He is a very street-smart cricketer, has been carrying Bangladesh on his shoulders for the longest years.”

The bowling coach of the Bangladesh cricket team Allan Donald spoke on how the team is preparing for Virat Kohli. He said, “I think Virat Kohli is the guy for me that you think about the night before, or two days out because that’s how we value his scalp.”