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Rahul Dravid. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)

Even though India picked up a comfortable win against New Zealand earlier in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, the Men in Blue cannot afford to take them lightly in the first semi-final. The Black Caps have troubled India in multiple knockout matches in the past and hence, Rahul Dravid, India’s head coach is cautious this time around.

Speaking about the same, the 50-year-old stated that there is some pressure on them since it’s a knock-out game but he backs his boys to prepare well and get the job done at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. He knows that one loss can change the mood of the fans and hence, aims to focus on the process ahead of the match on November 15.

“I would be in-authentic if I say that there will be no pressure of semi-final. You have no guarantees to win any game of cricket. What you can do is prepare the best you can and we’ve been doing that. When it’s going well it looks good. One loss and everyone says you don’t know anything,” Dravid said while speaking to the broadcasters after India’s emphatic win over Netherlands in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023.

Shreyas Iyer is the backbone of our middle order: Rahul Dravid

Shreyas Iyer has been a force to reckon with in the last few matches. The 28-year-old hit a cracking century in the last match against the Netherlands and is currently the third-leading run-scorer for India in the marquee tournament. Speaking about him, Dravid mentioned that the Mumbai-born cricketer is the backbone of India’s middle order and he is very pleased with the brand of cricket he has played so far.

“Shreyas Iyer is the backbone of our middle order, and we all know how tough it has been for us to find a good No. 4 batter for the last 10 years. Very pleased at how we’ve played in these nine games. Very clinical from game one to today,” Dravid said.

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