India will defend their Champions Trophy title in England, says Harbhajan Singh

INDIA VETERAN Harbhajan Singh believes that the Indian team has the ability, strength and stability to defend the upcoming Champions Trophy.

Harbhajan, who is a part of Mumbai Indians in the IPL 10, is one amongst eight players announced as Champions Ambassadors for this year’s ICC Champions Trophy. As reported by PTI, the 36-year-old stated,    

“India is the defending champion, and I sincerely believe that we have the strength, ability and stability to defend our crown. We just need to be at the top of our game. Let’s not forget that this tournament will feature the world’s eight top-ranked teams. So every team is going to fancy its chances. It will come down to the team that holds its nerve on the day. If you ask me to stick my neck out and predict the winner, I will happily say India. Yes, I believe this team can defend the title it won in 2013.”

Bhajji also reckoned that the Indian side will acclimatise to the English conditions very quickly.

“On a high after a successful home season, India will be keen on adapting quickly to the conditions in England. If we can touch base a few days before the start of the tournament, then it will help us acclimatise. The weather and pitch conditions in England are unique, and a few days of tune-up will only help.”

The CT is slated to be held in England and Wales between June 1 to 18 and Harbhajan said it will be more important this year considering that the 2019 World Cup will be held in similar conditions.

“This year, the ICC Champions Trophy assumes extra significance because the World Cup is just two years away, and will be played in the same conditions.”

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