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WION’s exclusive talk with Eoin Morgan: England’s legendary captain shares vision for 2023 World Cup
Mumbai: The anticipation for the 2023 ODI World Cup has reached a fever pitch as cricket fans around the globe eagerly await the spectacle of talent, passion, and national pride. India, a nation with an insatiable appetite for cricket, is set to host the extravaganza, captivating billions of fans worldwide. In a special preview of the tournament, Eoin Morgan, the 2019 ODI World Cup-winning captain, shared his views and predictions in an exclusive interview with Sports Editor of WION sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo.
Speaking to Deo, Morgan identified India as the favourites to clinch victory in their home conditions. Morgan acknowledged the exceptional growth and popularity of the game, predicting that ODI Cricket might eventually be limited to World Cup events. Highlighting the pressure faced by the 50-over format, he said, “The cricketing landscape is gradually shifting towards more T20 cricket, with the Future Tours Programme (FTP) reflecting this trend.”
Morgan lauded the Indian cricket team and said, “The enthusiasm and passion displayed by Indian fans are unparalleled, which makes this special. The team has formidable skills, and can, indeed, be strong contenders in the upcoming World Cup. They also need to engage with and learn from the experiences of those who participated in the 2011 World Cup.”
Identifying the top contenders for the 2023 ODI World Cup, Morgan singled out England, India, Australia, and Pakistan as the four favourites. Expressing his views on the Olympics, Morgan further suggested, “The 2023 ODI World Cup presents a golden opportunity for players to leave an indelible mark on the cricketing world. In fact, the T10 format should also be considered, allowing cricket to expand its reach and inclusivity.”
Known for its fervent cricket fans, the World Cup is a momentous occasion for the country. The upcoming 2023 Cricket World Cup is poised to be a celebration of cricketing excellence, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.
“For some, the World Cup will be the stage to announce their arrival at the grandest level, while for others, it might mark the end of illustrious careers,” added Morgan.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
