The grand finale will also take place at the same venue on 19 November, promising a thrilling conclusion to the pinnacle event of men’s ODI cricket.
Amidst political tensions between neighboring nations, India and Pakistan, the confirmation of Pakistan’s participation in the World Cup has been a subject of speculation. However, the stalemate was resolved earlier this month, bringing relief to cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
Pakistan agreed to share their matches with Sri Lanka, while India will play their Asia Cup matches in Sri Lanka. The fierce rivals will go head-to-head on 15 October at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket venue in the world in terms of capacity. Nevertheless, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has emphasized that government clearance is still necessary for any tour to India, including the World Cup matches.
India, one of the host nations, will begin their campaign on 8 October against the formidable five-time champions, Australia, in Chennai. This clash is expected to set the tone for the tournament, as both teams boast an impressive cricketing pedigree.
Meanwhile, the tournament opener between England and New Zealand will serve as a rematch of the thrilling 2019 final, which witnessed the hosts lifting the trophy on the basis of a now-discarded boundary count rule.
As the tournament progresses, cricket fans can look forward to some enthralling encounters. On 20 October, the 1992 champions, Pakistan, will lock horns with Australia in Bengaluru, adding another chapter to their historic rivalry. The following day, England will face South Africa in Mumbai, further intensifying the competition.
The semi-finals will be held on 15 and 16 November, with Mumbai and Kolkata chosen as the respective venues. These crucial matches, as well as the grand finale, will be day-night fixtures, adding a touch of glamour and excitement to the proceedings.
Overall, there will be a total of ten venues for the ten-team tournament, including Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Dharamsala, Delhi, Chennai, Lucknow, Pune, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
The teams that have already qualified for the World Cup, alongside the host nation India, are Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, England, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa.
Two more teams will earn their spots through a qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe, set to conclude on 9 July. The battle for those remaining spots promises fierce competition, as teams vie for the ultimate prize in men’s ODI cricket.
Cricket aficionados and players alike are eagerly anticipating the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, which is poised to showcase thrilling cricketing action, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Indian fans are expecting the rewriting of 2011 edition of World Cup when Indian side won the cup at home.