Former Indian cricket captain Kapil Dev has defended beleaguered skipper Mohammed Azharuddin by saying that it is not the right time to criticize the captain and the team with the world cup just round the corner.

“A lot of questions are being asked about Azhar’s captaincy nowadays which will put a lot of pressure on him and the team. Such criticisms are not good just before the world cup,” Kapil Dev said at a press conference in Calcutta on Tuesday.

The great all rounder said now was not the time to criticize the team or individual players, as it would affect world cup preparations.

Asked whether he found Azharuddin a good captain, Kapil Dev quipped: “Why is this question being asked now. Azhar has been leading the team for the last ten years or so. Has he changed now to deserve such criticism?”

Kapil Dev, who led ‘underdogs’ India to the memorable world cup triumph in 1983, said the current team had the potential and should do well in the forthcoming mega event.

“The team has the talent to do well in England. They should put their heads together and make the best possible use of the talent. There is no reason why India won't do well,” he observed.

On whether Azhar should lead the team considering his current form, Kapil said “the captain and the team for the world cup have already been selected. There is no point discussing these points now.”

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