Michael Clarke Supports India for Champions Trophy Win, then Impresses Himself with Blunt Forecast

Fans across the world are eagerly anticipating the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy to be hosted by Pakistan and Dubai from February 19. In the many voices forecasting and predicting, former Australian skipper Michael Clarke has dropped a bombshell—believe it or not, he is sure that India will emerge victorious, even over his own country, Australia, in the final.

A Stunning Prediction from an Australian Icon

In a recent interview on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Clarke openly acknowledged that India is the team to beat in the tournament. Although he wished for Australia to win the title, his frank opinion compelled him to state that India could possibly have the advantage.

"Fingers crossed for Australia so I am going to write Australia down as one of them, and I think that they are going to be playing India in the final," Clarke said. "(A repeat of the 2023 ODI World Cup final) that is what I am looking for. But you know what, I reckon India is going to defeat Australia in the final. Can't believe that just escaped my lips. I reckon India is going to win the tournament. I am on with them."

Clarke’s bold proclamation caught even himself off guard. His words carry weight, considering his experience and success in international cricket, including being part of Australia's 2006 Champions Trophy-winning squad.

A Possible Repeat of the 2023 World Cup Final?

Australia and India previously met in a pressure-filled ICC final at the 2023 ODI World Cup. In that hard-fought encounter, Australia dashed Indian hopes before a full stadium in Ahmedabad to claim their fifth ODI World Cup title. The defeat was a disappointment for Indian supporters, who expected much from their team after a commanding tournament campaign.

This time around, Clarke believes India has what it takes to turn the tables. Their squad is brimming with talent, confidence, and a strong desire for redemption. With the Champions Trophy being one of the most coveted ICC titles, both teams will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of glory.

Backing Rohit Sharma to Shine

Apart from predicting India's win, Clarke has also looked to seek the aid of Indian skipper Rohit Sharma's form in propelling his team forward with the bat. Clarke believes that it would be the home opener who would have the maximum runs for the tournament alongside his return to form.

"Alright, I'm tipping India to win, so I'm tipping their captain who's again in good form. I'm going to tip Rohit Sharma as the top run-scorer in the tournament. That would be great to see him again in top form. It's great to see him scoring again. Sure, sure, I believe India needs him certainly," Clarke said.

Rohit Sharma's batting and captaincy will be the deciding factor for India's chances. With his image of playing long innings and dismantling bowlers, he will be the force behind India's drive.

Bowling Battle-Jofra Archer as the X-Factor

Clarke has gone with the services of England pacer Jofra Archer, who was the highest wicket-taker for this tournament. While the prospects of England remain half-and-half, Clarke is of the belief that Archer will help in terms of raw speed and accuracy- considering that most of the games may be played on slow wickets in Pakistan and Dubai.

"WoW, most wickets? Ah, when we played the PSL last year, it did not spin as much; the wickets were slow. I am going to choose a fast bowler. I am going to choose Jofra Archer as the leading wicket-taker. I know England will not do that well, but I think he is a superstar. Jofra is going to be very hard to play, so I am going to have him as my leading wicket-taker," Clarke said.

That may be enough of a reason to crown him the most valuable player of the tournament even if England as a team doesn't make it to the semifinals.

Travis Head-The Man for the Tournament?

Clarke shares the Australian star Travis Head for tournament most valuable player. He has played brilliantly in various formats of the game over the past few months and is the best bet for the same.

"If it's India versus Australia, I'd go with Travis Head. His form in the IPL was incredible, his Test form during the Australian summer was incredible, and following a brief stint off in Sri Lanka, he's good to go," Clarke said.

Head has established himself in both red-ball and white-ball cricket, and if he maintains his incredible form, he might prove to be a game-changer for Australia.

Conclusion-A Tournament to Watch Closely

Michael Clarke's predictions are adding to the excitement for the ICC Champions Trophy. His backing of India, even as an Australian cricket icon, says a lot about the Indian team's prowess and potential. Cricket is unpredictable, however, and as Clarke himself admitted, he hopes Australia could prove him wrong.

With top cricketers like Rohit Sharma, Jofra Archer, and Travis Head set to take center stage, fans can expect a thrilling contest between cricketing powerhouses. Whether Clarke’s forecast holds true or Australia manages to defy expectations once again, the Champions Trophy promises to be an unmissable spectacle for cricket lovers worldwide.