<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that Jos Buttler-led defending champions have it in them to replicate their 2019 success in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Vaughan feels England are mentally tough and, thus, can win the title once again in the ongoing edition. Buttler &amp; Co. are one of the contenders and have entered the 50-over showpiece event as the No. 5 ranked side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan wrote, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for this group. They can do it because England are very tough mentally. In a difficult situation, one of the players will stand up and do something to drag the team over the line."</p>

<p>"They generally blow teams away but when it gets spicy – such as the 2019 World Cup final and the must-win games in that tournament – they are mentally stronger than the rest," he further stated.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-no1-odi-side-hard-to-look-beyond-them-nasser-hussain-puts-his-money-on-hosts-to-win-cwc-23-642850">India are No.1 ODI side, hard to look beyond them: Nasser Hussain puts his money on hosts to win CWC '23</a></strong></p>

<p>However, Vaughan sounded a bit concerned about the English bowling. In this regard, the 48-year-old added, "The doubt is whether the bowling (can) maximise conditions and take wickets at key times. We know the white ball in the UK does a bit early on and the likes of Chris Woakes and Curran are such a threat. But will the wickets nullify those two?"</p>

<p>England have kicked off the CWC 2023 edition against New Zealand in the tournament opener at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They will be eager to start off with a bang and build on the momentum. They have two big games in the latter half of the tournament, versus India (on October 29 in Lucknow) and against arch-rivals Australia (on November 4 in Ahmedabad). The result of the two games will determine England's road ahead in the mega event.</p>

<p><strong>England squad:</strong>&nbsp;Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that Jos Buttler-led defending champions have it in them to replicate their 2019 success in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes that Jos Buttler-led defending champions have it in them to replicate their 2019 success in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. Vaughan feels England are mentally tough and, thus, can win the title once again in the ongoing edition. Buttler & Co. are one of the contenders and have entered the 50-over showpiece event as the No. 5 ranked side. In his column for The Telegraph, Vaughan wrote, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for this group. They can do it because England are very tough mentally. In a difficult situation, one of the players will stand up and do something to drag the team over the line." "They generally blow teams away but when it gets spicy – such as the 2019 World Cup final and the must-win games in that tournament – they are mentally stronger than the rest," he further stated. Also read: India are No.1 ODI side, hard to look beyond them: Nasser Hussain puts his money on hosts to win CWC '23 However, Vaughan sounded a bit concerned about the English bowling. In this regard, the 48-year-old added, "The doubt is whether the bowling (can) maximise conditions and take wickets at key times. We know the white ball in the UK does a bit early on and the likes of Chris Woakes and Curran are such a threat. But will the wickets nullify those two?" England have kicked off the CWC 2023 edition against New Zealand in the tournament opener at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad. They will be eager to start off with a bang and build on the momentum. They have two big games in the latter half of the tournament, versus India (on October 29 in Lucknow) and against arch-rivals Australia (on November 4 in Ahmedabad). The result of the two games will determine England's road ahead in the mega event. England squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.

'England can win World Cup 2023 as...': Former England captain Michael Vaughan's BIG claim

<p>New Zealand's Matt Henry took the first wicket of 2023 ODI World Cup in the opening game against England in Ahmedabad on October 5. Henry sent back Englishman Dawid Malan in the eight over of the innings on a team score of 40.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Batting first after losing the toss at the Narendra Modi stadium, England got to a good start with 12 runs coming off the first over by Trent Boult. The things were going smoothly before Henry sent back Malan on 14 on the fourth ball of the eight over. The ball was outside off and Malan tried to work it on the off side but edged it and Kiwi wicketkeeper Tom Latham made no mistake behind the stumps. Have a look at the wicket here:</p>

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<p>Earlier Latham, leading Kiwis in Kane Williamson's absence, won the coin flip as Blackcaps decided to bowl first at Narendra Modi stadium. For England, Ben Stokes missed out from the playing XI as hinted by Jos Buttler on the eve of the game during Captains' Day meet. Buttler confirmed at the toss that Stokes has a niggle. "Ben is going to miss this game. He has a niggle," said Buttler.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-are-no1-odi-side-hard-to-look-beyond-them-nasser-hussain-puts-his-money-on-hosts-to-win-cwc-23-642850">India are No.1 ODI side, hard to look beyond them: Nasser Hussain puts his money on hosts to win CWC '23</a></p>

<p>Stokes, notably, made a comeback to ODIs ahead of the World Cup after retiring from the format last year. He had played against New Zealand in the ODI series prior to the quadrennial event but missed out the warm-up game. Stokes' absence could play a big role for England in the rematch of 2019 World Cup final.</p>

<p>New Zealand too are without their star batsman and regular skipper Kane Williamson who is still nursing an ACL injury from the IPL 2023. Apart from him, Tim Southee is also missing the game after fracturing his right thumb in the lead up to World Cup.</p>

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New Zealand's Matt Henry took the first wicket of 2023 ODI World Cup in the opening game against England in Ahmedabad on October 5. Henry sent back Englishman Dawid Malan in the eight over of the innings on a team score of 40.

New Zealand's Matt Henry took the first wicket of 2023 ODI World Cup in the opening game against England in Ahmedabad on October 5. Henry sent back Englishman Dawid Malan in the eight over of the innings on a team score of 40. Batting first after losing the toss at the Narendra Modi stadium, England got to a good start with 12 runs coming off the first over by Trent Boult. The things were going smoothly before Henry sent back Malan on 14 on the fourth ball of the eight over. The ball was outside off and Malan tried to work it on the off side but edged it and Kiwi wicketkeeper Tom Latham made no mistake behind the stumps. Have a look at the wicket here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Earlier Latham, leading Kiwis in Kane Williamson's absence, won the coin flip as Blackcaps decided to bowl first at Narendra Modi stadium. For England, Ben Stokes missed out from the playing XI as hinted by Jos Buttler on the eve of the game during Captains' Day meet. Buttler confirmed at the toss that Stokes has a niggle. "Ben is going to miss this game. He has a niggle," said Buttler. Also Read: India are No.1 ODI side, hard to look beyond them: Nasser Hussain puts his money on hosts to win CWC '23 Stokes, notably, made a comeback to ODIs ahead of the World Cup after retiring from the format last year. He had played against New Zealand in the ODI series prior to the quadrennial event but missed out the warm-up game. Stokes' absence could play a big role for England in the rematch of 2019 World Cup final. New Zealand too are without their star batsman and regular skipper Kane Williamson who is still nursing an ACL injury from the IPL 2023. Apart from him, Tim Southee is also missing the game after fracturing his right thumb in the lead up to World Cup.

ODI World Cup 2023, ENG vs NZ: Watch Matt Henry dismisses Dawid Malan for first wicket of tournament

ODI World Cup 2023, ENG vs NZ: Thousands of empty seats in tournament opener

<p>Former England captain Nasser Hussain has backed Team India to win the CWC 2023 edition, which kicked off on Thursday (October 5) with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. In the last three editions, the home side has&nbsp;won the mega title. In the previous two World Cups, the team who entered the marquee event as the No. 1 ranked side went on to win the prestigious trophy. With India hosting the event and entering the competition as the No. 1 ranked side, they have everything going for them to win their third title in tournament history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's hard to look beyond India. They're ranked No. 1 in the world, plus history tells you that playing at home is a huge advantage. England won it four years ago, Australia in 2015 when hosting, and India themselves back in 2011. They're also just a very good side with basically all bases covered. They'll be very hard to beat," Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-will-beat-india-for-the-first-time-in-odi-world-cup-history-former-england-batter-makes-bold-claim-642841">Pakistan will beat India for the first-time in ODI World Cup history: Former England batter makes BOLD claim</a></strong></p>

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<p>India have had a good run in the format in the past few months. Having beaten West Indies in the three ODIs&nbsp;in the Caribbean island in July-August, Rohit &amp; Co. went on to win the 50-over Asia Cup and clinch&nbsp;the three-match ODI series&nbsp;at home&nbsp;versus Australia 2-1 to complete their World Cup preparations on a high.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>India's schedule at CWC '23</strong></p>

<p>India vs Australia in Chennai on October 8<br />
India vs Afghanistan in New Delhi on October 11<br />
India vs Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 14<br />
India vs Bangladesh in Pune on October 19<br />
India vs New Zealand in Dharamshala on October 22<br />
India vs England in Lucknow on October 29<br />
India vs Sri Lanka in Mumbai on November 02<br />
India vs South Africa in Kolkata on November 05<br />
India vs Netherlands in Bengaluru on November 12</p>

<p>I<strong>ndia squad for CWC '23:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

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Former England captain Nasser Hussain has backed Team India to win the CWC 2023 edition, which kicked off on Thursday (October 5) with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has backed Team India to win the CWC 2023 edition, which kicked off on Thursday (October 5) with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. In the last three editions, the home side has won the mega title. In the previous two World Cups, the team who entered the marquee event as the No. 1 ranked side went on to win the prestigious trophy. With India hosting the event and entering the competition as the No. 1 ranked side, they have everything going for them to win their third title in tournament history. "It's hard to look beyond India. They're ranked No. 1 in the world, plus history tells you that playing at home is a huge advantage. England won it four years ago, Australia in 2015 when hosting, and India themselves back in 2011. They're also just a very good side with basically all bases covered. They'll be very hard to beat," Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports. Also read: Pakistan will beat India for the first-time in ODI World Cup history: Former England batter makes BOLD claim × India have had a good run in the format in the past few months. Having beaten West Indies in the three ODIs in the Caribbean island in July-August, Rohit & Co. went on to win the 50-over Asia Cup and clinch the three-match ODI series at home versus Australia 2-1 to complete their World Cup preparations on a high. India's schedule at CWC '23 India vs Australia in Chennai on October 8 India vs Afghanistan in New Delhi on October 11 India vs Pakistan in Ahmedabad on October 14 India vs Bangladesh in Pune on October 19 India vs New Zealand in Dharamshala on October 22 India vs England in Lucknow on October 29 India vs Sri Lanka in Mumbai on November 02 India vs South Africa in Kolkata on November 05 India vs Netherlands in Bengaluru on November 12 India squad for CWC '23: Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India are No.1 ODI side, hard to look beyond them: Nasser Hussain puts his money on hosts to win CWC '23

<p>The ODI World Cup 2023 got underway on Thursday, October 5 in Ahmedabad when England and New Zealand skippers made it to the middle for the toss. Tom Latham, leading Kiwis in Kane Williamson's absence, won the coin flip as Black Caps decided to bowl first at the Narendra Modi Stadium.</p>

<p>For England, Ben Stokes missed out on the playing XI as hinted by Jos Buttler on the eve of the game during the Captains' Day meet. Buttler confirmed at the toss that Stokes has a niggle. "Ben is going to miss this game. He has a niggle," said Buttler. Have a look at the toss here:</p>

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<p>Stokes, notably, made a comeback to ODIs ahead of the World Cup after retiring from the format last year. He had played against New Zealand in the ODI series prior to the quadrennial event but missed out on the warm-up game. Stokes' absence could play a big role for England in the rematch of the 2019 World Cup final.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-2023-sa-skipper-temba-bavuma-clarifies-on-sleeping-during-captains-day-event-642819">SA skipper Temba Bavuma clarifies on sleeping during Captains' Day event</a></p>

<p>New Zealand too are without their star batsman and regular skipper Kane Williamson who is still nursing an ACL injury from the IPL 2023. Apart from him, Tim Southee is also missing the game after fracturing his right thumb in the lead-up to the World Cup.</p>

<p>England, however, are strong favourites to not only win the rematch of 2019 World Cup finalists but the whole tournament. English skipper Jos Buttler, however, has shrugged off the defending champions tag and said that they are not under any pressure.</p>

<p>"We're not trying to defend anything. We're trying to go there and win a World Cup. We're in exactly the same position as every other team,” Buttler said on the eve of the tournament.</p>

<p>Trent Boult, meanwhile, is expected to lead the pace attack in the opening game for New Zealand and take early wickets.</p>

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The ODI World Cup 2023 got underway on Thursday, October 5 in Ahmedabad when England and New Zealand skippers made it to the middle for the toss. Tom Latham, leading Kiwis in Kane Williamson's absence, won the coin flip as Black Caps decided to bowl first at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

The ODI World Cup 2023 got underway on Thursday, October 5 in Ahmedabad when England and New Zealand skippers made it to the middle for the toss. Tom Latham, leading Kiwis in Kane Williamson's absence, won the coin flip as Black Caps decided to bowl first at the Narendra Modi Stadium. For England, Ben Stokes missed out on the playing XI as hinted by Jos Buttler on the eve of the game during the Captains' Day meet. Buttler confirmed at the toss that Stokes has a niggle. "Ben is going to miss this game. He has a niggle," said Buttler. Have a look at the toss here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by ICC (@icc) × Stokes, notably, made a comeback to ODIs ahead of the World Cup after retiring from the format last year. He had played against New Zealand in the ODI series prior to the quadrennial event but missed out on the warm-up game. Stokes' absence could play a big role for England in the rematch of the 2019 World Cup final. Also Read: SA skipper Temba Bavuma clarifies on sleeping during Captains' Day event New Zealand too are without their star batsman and regular skipper Kane Williamson who is still nursing an ACL injury from the IPL 2023. Apart from him, Tim Southee is also missing the game after fracturing his right thumb in the lead-up to the World Cup. England, however, are strong favourites to not only win the rematch of 2019 World Cup finalists but the whole tournament. English skipper Jos Buttler, however, has shrugged off the defending champions tag and said that they are not under any pressure. "We're not trying to defend anything. We're trying to go there and win a World Cup. We're in exactly the same position as every other team,” Buttler said on the eve of the tournament. Trent Boult, meanwhile, is expected to lead the pace attack in the opening game for New Zealand and take early wickets.

ODI World Cup 2023: England's Ben Stokes out of New Zealand game with injury, Harry Brook named replacement

<p>The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India. Former cricketers and experts of the game have been making some bold predictions and ex-English batter Michael Atherton has also joined the bandwagon and made a very big claim. Atherton feels Pakistan will beat India in the CWC '23 edition face-off.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Pakistan have met each other on seven occasions in the 50-over World Cup history&nbsp;since 1992. On every occasion, the Men in Blue have beaten their arch-rivals Pakistan, but Atherton feels Babar Azam &amp; Co. will beat Rohit Sharma's Team India in the 2023 edition.&nbsp;Speaking about the clash on Sky Sports, the former England captain stated that the Men in Green will go past India&nbsp;this time around and win their first match against their arch-rivals in World Cup history.</p>

<p>India will host Pakistan in match 12 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 14 (Saturday). Atherton said that the match&nbsp;will be the biggest match of this year's World Cup unless both sides lock horns in the final or semi-final.</p>

<p>"As my bold prediction, I'm saying that for the first time in a 50-over World Cup Pakistan will beat India. They have won zero out of seven over the years. It's going to be the biggest game of the tournament, unless they meet again in a semi-final or, could you imagine, the final. It is sure to be a packed house; it will be mayhem and maybe Pakistan will jump a surprise," said Atherton.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-rohit-sharma-opens-up-on-team-indias-approach-says-not-thinking-too-much-about-642633">ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...'</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan play their first game&nbsp;on Friday (October 6) in Hyderabad, versus the Netherlands. Meanwhile, India will open their campaign in CWC '23 on October 8 when they face Australia in Chennai.</p>

<p>I<strong>ndia squad for CWC '23:&nbsp;</strong>Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

<p><strong>Pakistan squad for CWC '23:</strong>&nbsp;Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali</p>

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The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India.

The D-Day is finally here. ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with the defending champions England taking on New Zealand. For the past few months, there has been good hype around the ODI World Cup, being held entirely in India. Former cricketers and experts of the game have been making some bold predictions and ex-English batter Michael Atherton has also joined the bandwagon and made a very big claim. Atherton feels Pakistan will beat India in the CWC '23 edition face-off. India and Pakistan have met each other on seven occasions in the 50-over World Cup history since 1992. On every occasion, the Men in Blue have beaten their arch-rivals Pakistan, but Atherton feels Babar Azam & Co. will beat Rohit Sharma's Team India in the 2023 edition. Speaking about the clash on Sky Sports, the former England captain stated that the Men in Green will go past India this time around and win their first match against their arch-rivals in World Cup history. India will host Pakistan in match 12 at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on October 14 (Saturday). Atherton said that the match will be the biggest match of this year's World Cup unless both sides lock horns in the final or semi-final. "As my bold prediction, I'm saying that for the first time in a 50-over World Cup Pakistan will beat India. They have won zero out of seven over the years. It's going to be the biggest game of the tournament, unless they meet again in a semi-final or, could you imagine, the final. It is sure to be a packed house; it will be mayhem and maybe Pakistan will jump a surprise," said Atherton. Also read: ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...' Pakistan play their first game on Friday (October 6) in Hyderabad, versus the Netherlands. Meanwhile, India will open their campaign in CWC '23 on October 8 when they face Australia in Chennai. India squad for CWC '23: Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav Pakistan squad for CWC '23: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan will beat India for the first-time in ODI World Cup history: Former England batter makes BOLD claim

<p>The ODI World Cup 2023 is not going to have an opening ceremony, as per reports. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, hadn't announced a formal plan for the ceremony, but there were reports doing rounds of some famous artists going to perform after the Captains' Day event.</p>

<p>The International Cricket Council (ICC) held&nbsp;the Captains' Day on the eve of the ODI World Cup 2023 which starts October 5 in Ahmedabad. But there are no plans for an opening ceremony contrary to previous reports. It was claimed by a section of media that a star-studded line-up of Ranveer Singh, Arijit Singh, Tamannaah Bhatia, Shreya Ghoshal, and Asha Bhosle would perform to mark the beginning of the tournament with fireworks and a laser show display as well. There is, however, neither confirmation nor a cancellation announcement on the opening ceremony by the BCCI.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-pakistan-former-india-captain-sourav-ganguly-predicts-cwc-2023-semi-finalists-642516">No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists</a></p>

<p>For the first match of the tournament, defending champions England will take on 2015 and 2019 runners-up New Zealand at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad. The two sides had recently met in an ODI series which England won comfortably. Talking about players to watch out for in the game, Ben Stokes was one of the biggest names, however, he has now been ruled out due to an injury.&nbsp;Kane Williamson will also miss the opening match for the Kiwis.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, there are enough match-winners on each side and here are some top players to watch out for in the game between the 2019&nbsp;finalists.</p>

<p><strong>Trent Boult:</strong> New Zealand's top wicket-taker on whom the Kiwis would be resting their hopes, praying that his swinging deliveries take early wickets.</p>

<p><strong>Mark Wood:</strong> England's enforcer with extreme pace and a crucial log-in wheel of England's middle-over plans.</p>

<p><strong>Devon Conway: The&nbsp;</strong>Black Caps opener with sublime current form has the duty of giving strong starts, especially in Kane Williamson's absence.</p>

<p><strong>Adil Rashid:</strong> Potential game-changer for defending champions as his leg-spin can make or break middle overs for England.</p>

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The ODI World Cup 2023 is not going to have an opening ceremony, as per reports. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, hadn't announced a formal plan for the ceremony, but there were reports doing rounds of some famous artists going to perform after the Captains' Day event.

The ODI World Cup 2023 is not going to have an opening ceremony, as per reports. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, hadn't announced a formal plan for the ceremony, but there were reports doing rounds of some famous artists going to perform after the Captains' Day event. The International Cricket Council (ICC) held the Captains' Day on the eve of the ODI World Cup 2023 which starts October 5 in Ahmedabad. But there are no plans for an opening ceremony contrary to previous reports. It was claimed by a section of media that a star-studded line-up of Ranveer Singh, Arijit Singh, Tamannaah Bhatia, Shreya Ghoshal, and Asha Bhosle would perform to mark the beginning of the tournament with fireworks and a laser show display as well. There is, however, neither confirmation nor a cancellation announcement on the opening ceremony by the BCCI. Also Read: No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists For the first match of the tournament, defending champions England will take on 2015 and 2019 runners-up New Zealand at the Narendra Modi stadium in Ahmedabad. The two sides had recently met in an ODI series which England won comfortably. Talking about players to watch out for in the game, Ben Stokes was one of the biggest names, however, he has now been ruled out due to an injury. Kane Williamson will also miss the opening match for the Kiwis. Nonetheless, there are enough match-winners on each side and here are some top players to watch out for in the game between the 2019 finalists. Trent Boult: New Zealand's top wicket-taker on whom the Kiwis would be resting their hopes, praying that his swinging deliveries take early wickets. Mark Wood: England's enforcer with extreme pace and a crucial log-in wheel of England's middle-over plans. Devon Conway: The Black Caps opener with sublime current form has the duty of giving strong starts, especially in Kane Williamson's absence. Adil Rashid: Potential game-changer for defending champions as his leg-spin can make or break middle overs for England.

ODI World Cup 2023: No opening ceremony? Here's what we know so far

<p>The ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up games got over on October 3 with Australia and Afghanistan registering wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively, in the&nbsp;last attempt to tune up their preparations. The game between India and Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram was, however, washed out. It was the second time in a week that the hosts India couldn't play in the warm-up after their first such game against England in Guwahati was also washed out.</p>

<p>Australia, however, managed to beat Pakistan in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad. Batting first, the Aussies scored 351/7 in 50 overs with each batter getting a start or more apart from Alex Carey. For the Kangaroos, Glenn Maxwell scored 77 and Cameron Green scored 50, while Josh Inglis managed 48 off 30 and opener David Warner also scored 48.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-can-see-england-beating-india-in-a-tight-cwc-2023-final-james-anderson-shares-bold-prediction-642163">'I can see England beating India in a tight CWC 2023 final': James Anderson shares BOLD prediction</a></p>

<p>Pakistan's Usama Mir was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets as Shaheen Afridi went wicketless in his six overs. Chasing the total, Men in Green were 83/4 before Iftikhar Ahmed and Babar Azam put together a 144-run partnership at a rapid pace. Pak kept losing wickets at regular intervals after that and eventually folded out for 337 in 47.4 overs - losing the game by 14 runs.</p>

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<h2>Afghanistan take down Sri Lanka</h2>

<p>In the other match, Afghanistan overcame a brilliant 158 by Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Mendis. Despite Mendis' heroics, the 1996 World Cup winners could post only 294 in 46.2 overs. Mohammad Nabi took four wickets for Afghanistan to put a check on the run-rate in late-middle overs.</p>

<p>The Afghans were cruising along nicely before the rain interruption and they got a revised target of 257 runs in 42 overs. Already on top of things with Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 119 off 92 balls and Rahmat Shah's 93, Afghanistan reached the target in 38.1 overs with six wickets to spare.</p>

<p>The ODI World Cup starts Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with defending champions England taking on 2015 and 2019 runners-up New Zealand.</p>


The ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up games got over on October 3 with Australia and Afghanistan registering wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively, in the last attempt to tune up their preparations.

The ODI World Cup 2023 warm-up games got over on October 3 with Australia and Afghanistan registering wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka, respectively, in the last attempt to tune up their preparations. The game between India and Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram was, however, washed out. It was the second time in a week that the hosts India couldn't play in the warm-up after their first such game against England in Guwahati was also washed out. Australia, however, managed to beat Pakistan in a high-scoring thriller in Hyderabad. Batting first, the Aussies scored 351/7 in 50 overs with each batter getting a start or more apart from Alex Carey. For the Kangaroos, Glenn Maxwell scored 77 and Cameron Green scored 50, while Josh Inglis managed 48 off 30 and opener David Warner also scored 48. Also Read: 'I can see England beating India in a tight CWC 2023 final': James Anderson shares BOLD prediction Pakistan's Usama Mir was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets as Shaheen Afridi went wicketless in his six overs. Chasing the total, Men in Green were 83/4 before Iftikhar Ahmed and Babar Azam put together a 144-run partnership at a rapid pace. Pak kept losing wickets at regular intervals after that and eventually folded out for 337 in 47.4 overs - losing the game by 14 runs. Afghanistan take down Sri Lanka In the other match, Afghanistan overcame a brilliant 158 by Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Mendis. Despite Mendis' heroics, the 1996 World Cup winners could post only 294 in 46.2 overs. Mohammad Nabi took four wickets for Afghanistan to put a check on the run-rate in late-middle overs. The Afghans were cruising along nicely before the rain interruption and they got a revised target of 257 runs in 42 overs. Already on top of things with Rahmanullah Gurbaz's 119 off 92 balls and Rahmat Shah's 93, Afghanistan reached the target in 38.1 overs with six wickets to spare. The ODI World Cup starts Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad with defending champions England taking on 2015 and 2019 runners-up New Zealand.

ODI World Cup: Australia, Afghanistan register win in warm-ups, India vs Netherlands washed out

<p>Ahead of the CWC 2023 opener, where defending champions England meet New Zealand in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 5), Jos Buttler has confirmed that Ben Stokes isn't fully fit. On Wednesday (October 4), the&nbsp;English captain revealed that the star batter has&nbsp;a slight niggle with his hip and is working hard to recover in time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Talking to the reporters in the pre-match presser, on Wednesday, Buttler told, "He's got a slight niggle with his hip. Fingers crossed that it'll be good news for us. He's working hard with the physios and we'll know more when the guys arrive for training today. We'll make the right call: if he's not fit to play, he's not fit to play."</p>

<p>Thus, Buttler has made it clear that Stokes will be included in the playing XI only if deemed fit by the medical team. England won't be looking to take any risk with the Test captain's fitness at the start of the marquee event in India. The 32-year-old Stokes recently came out of his ODI retirement to feature in the World Cup and, hence, his progress will be closely monitored by the&nbsp;team management.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, New Zealand will be without regular captain Kane Williamson, and pacer Tim Southee, for the opener. In Williamson's absence, Tom Latham will lead the two-time runners-up.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sehwag-gambhir-yuvraj-missed-out-rohit-on-his-captaincy-stint-grateful-to-lead-india-in-cwc-23-642574">'Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj missed out': Rohit on his captaincy stint, 'grateful' to lead India in CWC '23</a></strong></p>

<p>If Stokes misses out, it will be a huge blow to England.&nbsp;The star cricketer has been in top form in the shorter format since his return. In the home series versus New Zealand, last month, the left-hander scored a majestic 182 --&nbsp;highest individual&nbsp;score for England&nbsp;in ODIs. In addition, he&nbsp;was&nbsp;adjudged the Player-of-the-Match when both sides last met in the 50-over World Cup, i.e. during the 2019 edition's final.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stokes averages a healthy&nbsp;55.08 versus the Black Caps, with a hundred and four half-centuries.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>England final squad for CWC 2023:</strong></p>

<p>Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.</p>

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Ahead of the CWC 2023 opener, where defending champions England meet New Zealand in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 5), Jos Buttler has confirmed that Ben Stokes isn't fully fit.

Ahead of the CWC 2023 opener, where defending champions England meet New Zealand in Ahmedabad on Thursday (October 5), Jos Buttler has confirmed that Ben Stokes isn't fully fit. On Wednesday (October 4), the English captain revealed that the star batter has a slight niggle with his hip and is working hard to recover in time. Talking to the reporters in the pre-match presser, on Wednesday, Buttler told, "He's got a slight niggle with his hip. Fingers crossed that it'll be good news for us. He's working hard with the physios and we'll know more when the guys arrive for training today. We'll make the right call: if he's not fit to play, he's not fit to play." Thus, Buttler has made it clear that Stokes will be included in the playing XI only if deemed fit by the medical team. England won't be looking to take any risk with the Test captain's fitness at the start of the marquee event in India. The 32-year-old Stokes recently came out of his ODI retirement to feature in the World Cup and, hence, his progress will be closely monitored by the team management. Meanwhile, New Zealand will be without regular captain Kane Williamson, and pacer Tim Southee, for the opener. In Williamson's absence, Tom Latham will lead the two-time runners-up. Also read: 'Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj missed out': Rohit on his captaincy stint, 'grateful' to lead India in CWC '23 If Stokes misses out, it will be a huge blow to England. The star cricketer has been in top form in the shorter format since his return. In the home series versus New Zealand, last month, the left-hander scored a majestic 182 -- highest individual score for England in ODIs. In addition, he was adjudged the Player-of-the-Match when both sides last met in the 50-over World Cup, i.e. during the 2019 edition's final. Stokes averages a healthy 55.08 versus the Black Caps, with a hundred and four half-centuries. England final squad for CWC 2023: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Jos Buttler confirms Ben Stokes 'not fully fit' for England vs New Zealand curtain raiser

<p>India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament. All the 10 captains participating in the World Cup met on the eve of the curtain-raiser in the pre-tournament shoot where Rohit opened on his team’s approach.</p>

<h2><strong>Rohit opens on team’s approach</strong></h2>

<p>“Not thinking too much about it, honestly it has happened in the last three editions of the World Cup but all I can say is we are going to try our best, give our best, and enjoy the tournament. That’s all I can say at this point in time because it’s a pretty long tournament and I do understand that you can’t get too far ahead of yourself. So, it’s important for us that we try and focus on one job at a time and then move on from there,” Sharma said in the captain's event arranged on Wednesday.</p>

<p>India will look to become the fourth consecutive nation to win the ODI World Cup on home soil, a tradition that started with the hosts in 2011. India became the first nation to win the ODI World Cup on home turf when MS Dhoni’s troops defeated Sri Lanka in the final in 2011 while Australia and England then followed the success story in 2015 and 2019 respectively.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cwc-23-from-sourav-ganguly-to-md-azharuddin-indian-captains-with-most-sixes-in-an-odi-world-cup-642491">CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup</a></p>

<p>Rohit will look for a repeat of his 2019 performance&nbsp;where he smashed five hundreds and led the side to the semifinals. He was in explosive form in England as he scored 648 runs in nine matches and was the highest scorer in the tournament. A repeat of that could see India in pole position to lift the World Cup as they also have the home advantage on their side.</p>

<p>India will start their World Cup campaign on Sunday (Oct 8) against Australia in Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. India will have recent history on their side having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the ODI series in September.</p>

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India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament.

India skipper Rohit Sharma has opened up on his team’s approach as they prepare for the upcoming ODI World Cup which starts on Thursday (Oct 5). Rohit, one of the 10 captains in the marquee tournament, will eye glory but insists his team will take one match at a time during the tournament. All the 10 captains participating in the World Cup met on the eve of the curtain-raiser in the pre-tournament shoot where Rohit opened on his team’s approach. Rohit opens on team’s approach “Not thinking too much about it, honestly it has happened in the last three editions of the World Cup but all I can say is we are going to try our best, give our best, and enjoy the tournament. That’s all I can say at this point in time because it’s a pretty long tournament and I do understand that you can’t get too far ahead of yourself. So, it’s important for us that we try and focus on one job at a time and then move on from there,” Sharma said in the captain's event arranged on Wednesday. India will look to become the fourth consecutive nation to win the ODI World Cup on home soil, a tradition that started with the hosts in 2011. India became the first nation to win the ODI World Cup on home turf when MS Dhoni’s troops defeated Sri Lanka in the final in 2011 while Australia and England then followed the success story in 2015 and 2019 respectively. ALSO READ | CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup Rohit will look for a repeat of his 2019 performance where he smashed five hundreds and led the side to the semifinals. He was in explosive form in England as he scored 648 runs in nine matches and was the highest scorer in the tournament. A repeat of that could see India in pole position to lift the World Cup as they also have the home advantage on their side. India will start their World Cup campaign on Sunday (Oct 8) against Australia in Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. India will have recent history on their side having beaten the team from down under 2-1 in the ODI series in September. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma opens up on Team India's approach, says 'not thinking too much about...'

<p>Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past.</p>

<p>When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have&nbsp;the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers.</p>

<p>Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)."</p>

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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/no-pakistan-former-india-captain-sourav-ganguly-predicts-cwc-2023-semi-finalists-642516">No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain'</strong></h2>

<p>"Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added.</p>

<p>Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third&nbsp;World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high.</p>

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Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35.

Rohit Sharma became India's full-time captain early in 2022. Thus, captaincy came very late for Rohit. Back then, he was 34 and just a few months away from turning 35. Ahead of the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off in India on October 5 (Thursday), the Indian captain Rohit expressed his gratitude for leading India across formats as he believes many big names missed out on becoming the national side's skipper in the past. When India last hosted the ODI World Cup, along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in 2011, MS Dhoni-led Men in Blue won the coveted title (for the second time overall in the country's rich cricketing history). Back then, Rohit was not even part of the World Cup squad. In the current scenario, Hitman will be leading India in the mega event where the hosts' campaign starts on October 8, facing Australia in Chennai. Since taking over as India's captain, Rohit has had mixed results -- with a semi-final exit in 2022 T20 World Cup, WTC final loss and Asia Cup title last month. Thus, the 36-year-old will be eager to help India lift the 50-over World Cup once again and leave an impact as a captain. Ahead of his stint as captain in the marquee event, Rohit acknowledged the role and responsibility given to him, mentioning that some superstar players such as Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, etc. did not have the luxury to lead despite having stellar careers. Talking to the Indian Express, Rohit said, "Obviously, you want to be at your peak for this, say when you are 26-27. But you cannot always get what you want. You are talking about the Indian captaincy and there have been stalwarts in the Indian team. Many more players deserved to be the captain of the team. I had to wait for my turn and that's absolutely fair enough. The guys before, Virat was before me, so was MS (Dhoni)." × Also read: No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists 'Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain' "Just look at the names that missed out: Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag … these are all stalwarts of Indian cricket. Not to forget Yuvraj Singh. He never captained India. Yuvraj has been such a match winner for India, he should have been the captain at some stage but he didn’t get it. That's life. I got it now and I am grateful for it. I would rather have it when I know how to captain a team, when I know what is required and all. Rather than when I don’t know the ABCD of captaincy. So in that respect, this is good," Hitman added. Rohit will look to create a legacy by helping India win the upcoming ODI World Cup at home, on November 19. This will be his third World Cup, and last in all likelihood, hence, he will be desperate to leave on a high. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Sehwag, Gambhir, Yuvraj missed out': Rohit opines on his captaincy, 'grateful' to lead India in CWC '23

<p>The countdown for the ODI World Cup has reached the final 24 hours as England and New Zealand are set to square off in a mouth-watering curtain-raiser on Thursday (Oct 5). The clash taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will be a repeat of the 2019 edition’s final as both teams get ready for another round of spectacular action. On the eve of the tournament, former World Cup-winning coach of Sri Lanka, Dav Whatmore spoke&nbsp;on the key battles in the clash.</p>

<h2><strong>Key battles in Eng vs NZ</strong></h2>

<p>The clash is expected to bring the best out of both teams as New Zealand eye revenge for their excruciating loss in 2019&nbsp;ODI World Cup final despite missing skipper Kane Williamson for the opening clash. According to Whatmore, Ben Stokes vs Lockie Ferguson will be a key battle in the contest that could hinge the outcome of the contest.</p>

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<p>“I feel they will bring a quick bowler to try and get him out early. Mainly an attack back of a length and then a fuller delivery to have him pushing with the hands for either an edge to the keeper or a mistimed drive in the air. Fine leg up and square leg down for sure. If Stokes survives, definitely a wrist spinner will be brought on to get a wicket, better to get him out than have him contained - Attacking mindset,” WION's cricket expert Whatmore said on the eve of the World Cup opener.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two teams had a close battle in the 2019 edition final that went down to the wire before England clinched the World Champions tag. In a tight finish, both teams ended up serving a tie in the 50-over contest before Super Over was used to determine the winner. The teams were still not separated in terms of runs but England won, having scored more boundaries in the match.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cwc-23-from-sourav-ganguly-to-md-azharuddin-indian-captains-with-most-sixes-in-an-odi-world-cup-642491">CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup</a></p>

<p>According to Whatmore, there will be other key battles in the contest that could see the pendulum swing another way. Devon Conway and Mark Wood could also be a feisty contest while Jos Buttler and Ish Sodhi head-to-head will also be a treat to watch.</p>

<p>“I feel both (Santner and Sodhi) will look to frustrate the batter (Buttler) by minimizing boundaries. Having Buttler hit to where they want him to play - long singles, may result in mistiming an attacking shot and holing out in the deep. There’s always the chance of the ball beating the outside edge if there is a turn in the wicket too -left-arm spinner and right-arm wrist spin,” Whatmore added.</p>

<p>The curtain-raiser clash will start at 2:00 PM IST with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM at the Narendra Modi Stadium. This will be the 11th meeting between the sides at the ODI World Cup, with both England and New Zealand winning five matches each.</p>

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The countdown for the ODI World Cup has reached the final 24 hours as England and New Zealand are set to square off in a mouth-watering curtain-raiser on Thursday (Oct 5).

The countdown for the ODI World Cup has reached the final 24 hours as England and New Zealand are set to square off in a mouth-watering curtain-raiser on Thursday (Oct 5). The clash taking place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad will be a repeat of the 2019 edition’s final as both teams get ready for another round of spectacular action. On the eve of the tournament, former World Cup-winning coach of Sri Lanka, Dav Whatmore spoke on the key battles in the clash. Key battles in Eng vs NZ The clash is expected to bring the best out of both teams as New Zealand eye revenge for their excruciating loss in 2019 ODI World Cup final despite missing skipper Kane Williamson for the opening clash. According to Whatmore, Ben Stokes vs Lockie Ferguson will be a key battle in the contest that could hinge the outcome of the contest. “I feel they will bring a quick bowler to try and get him out early. Mainly an attack back of a length and then a fuller delivery to have him pushing with the hands for either an edge to the keeper or a mistimed drive in the air. Fine leg up and square leg down for sure. If Stokes survives, definitely a wrist spinner will be brought on to get a wicket, better to get him out than have him contained - Attacking mindset,” WION's cricket expert Whatmore said on the eve of the World Cup opener. The two teams had a close battle in the 2019 edition final that went down to the wire before England clinched the World Champions tag. In a tight finish, both teams ended up serving a tie in the 50-over contest before Super Over was used to determine the winner. The teams were still not separated in terms of runs but England won, having scored more boundaries in the match. ALSO READ | CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup According to Whatmore, there will be other key battles in the contest that could see the pendulum swing another way. Devon Conway and Mark Wood could also be a feisty contest while Jos Buttler and Ish Sodhi head-to-head will also be a treat to watch. “I feel both (Santner and Sodhi) will look to frustrate the batter (Buttler) by minimizing boundaries. Having Buttler hit to where they want him to play - long singles, may result in mistiming an attacking shot and holing out in the deep. There’s always the chance of the ball beating the outside edge if there is a turn in the wicket too -left-arm spinner and right-arm wrist spin,” Whatmore added. The curtain-raiser clash will start at 2:00 PM IST with the toss taking place at 1:30 PM at the Narendra Modi Stadium. This will be the 11th meeting between the sides at the ODI World Cup, with both England and New Zealand winning five matches each. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

ODI World Cup 2023: Dav Whatmore outlines key battles ahead of England vs New Zealand curtain-raiser

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on Thursday (October 5) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in the tournament opener in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the marquee event, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions and former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly has also joined the bandwagon.</p>

<p>In an interaction with India Today, Ganguly was asked to share his prediction for the top four. In this regard, the veteran has named India, Australia, England and New Zealand as his final four, with no room for Pakistan.</p>

<p>"It's difficult to say. But I will say India, Australia, England and New Zealand. Four teams will be good," Ganguly, who led India in the 2003 ODI World Cup final in South Africa, stated.</p>

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<p>On India's chances, Ganguly is very hopeful and said, "India is a very good side, a strong team, and most importantly, they are in very good momentum. The last one and a half month was very good for team India. They have won the crucial Asia Cup. I am very hopeful."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/r-ashwins-inclusion-in-team-indias-cwc-23-squad-is-very-good-decision-former-captain-sourav-ganguly-642445">R Ashwin’s inclusion in Team India's CWC '23 squad is very good decision: Former captain Sourav Ganguly</a></strong></p>

<p>India will look to break their ten-year-long ICC title drought with a win in the upcoming CWC 2023 edition. They last won an ICC title in the 2013 Champions Trophy. On India's lack of success in ICC events since 2013, Ganguly pointed out, "It happens in the game. India played the finals in 2017 in England they have lost to Pakistan. 2019 World Cup, India played well but lost in the semi-finals. They are playing well. I hope in this World Cup India will win the important moments, which is very important in World Cup like tournaments. I hope India will play the finals of the World Cup on the 19th of November in Ahmedabad."</p>

<p>India open their campaign on October 8 (Sunday) when they take on Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.</p>

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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on Thursday (October 5) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in the tournament opener in Ahmedabad.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on Thursday (October 5) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in the tournament opener in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the marquee event, many former cricketers and experts of the game have shared their predictions and former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly has also joined the bandwagon. In an interaction with India Today, Ganguly was asked to share his prediction for the top four. In this regard, the veteran has named India, Australia, England and New Zealand as his final four, with no room for Pakistan. "It's difficult to say. But I will say India, Australia, England and New Zealand. Four teams will be good," Ganguly, who led India in the 2003 ODI World Cup final in South Africa, stated. × On India's chances, Ganguly is very hopeful and said, "India is a very good side, a strong team, and most importantly, they are in very good momentum. The last one and a half month was very good for team India. They have won the crucial Asia Cup. I am very hopeful." Also read: R Ashwin’s inclusion in Team India's CWC '23 squad is very good decision: Former captain Sourav Ganguly India will look to break their ten-year-long ICC title drought with a win in the upcoming CWC 2023 edition. They last won an ICC title in the 2013 Champions Trophy. On India's lack of success in ICC events since 2013, Ganguly pointed out, "It happens in the game. India played the finals in 2017 in England they have lost to Pakistan. 2019 World Cup, India played well but lost in the semi-finals. They are playing well. I hope in this World Cup India will win the important moments, which is very important in World Cup like tournaments. I hope India will play the finals of the World Cup on the 19th of November in Ahmedabad." India open their campaign on October 8 (Sunday) when they take on Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No Pakistan! Former India captain Sourav Ganguly predicts CWC 2023 semi-finalists

<p>Former India pacer Zaheer Khan thinks South Africa will be spoiling the party for a lot of teams in the ODI World Cup 2023. While the Proteas are tagged as 'chokers' when it comes to the ICC tournaments, Khan said they will be a force to reckon with in the quadrennial event which starts Thursday (October 5).</p>

<p>“Everyone seems to be talking about India, England, Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand as contenders, but I feel South Africa will be the dark horse at the World Cup this year,” said Zaheer at an event in Mumbai.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/odi-world-cup-australia-afghanistan-register-win-in-warm-ups-india-vs-netherlands-washed-out-642372">ODI World Cup: Australia, Afghanistan register win in warm-ups, India vs Netherlands washed out</a></p>

<p>“South Africa’s history when it comes to ICC tournaments isn’t great,” he added. “They have this tag of 'chokers' also which goes with them. But somehow, looking at the way they played against Australia recently, I think they could be the dark horse. If certain players from their squad come good in the Indian conditions, they will definitely be a force to reckon with.”</p>

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<p>Notably, South Africa beat Australia 3-2 in the five-match ODI series before arriving in India for the World Cup. The Proteas were 0-2 down in the series before making a spectacular comeback to win the series. Zaheer also mentioned that despite the teams ending in top four in the group stage, any team can beat anyone in the semis and finals.</p>

<p>“The format is such that if you manage to be in the top four at the end of the league stage, you only need two more days of good cricket to win the title,” Zaheer said. “And in such a situation, anyone can beat anyone. How each team approaches the league stage and builds momentum will be crucial,” added Khan.</p>

<p>South Africa start their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka in the fourth match of the tournament on October 7 before taking on Australia in their next match on October 12.</p>


Former India pacer Zaheer Khan thinks South Africa will be spoiling the party for a lot of teams in the ODI World Cup 2023. While the Proteas are tagged as 'chokers' when it comes to the ICC tournaments, Khan said they will be a force to reckon with in the quadrennial event which starts Thursday (October 5).

Former India pacer Zaheer Khan thinks South Africa will be spoiling the party for a lot of teams in the ODI World Cup 2023. While the Proteas are tagged as 'chokers' when it comes to the ICC tournaments, Khan said they will be a force to reckon with in the quadrennial event which starts Thursday (October 5). “Everyone seems to be talking about India, England, Australia, Pakistan and New Zealand as contenders, but I feel South Africa will be the dark horse at the World Cup this year,” said Zaheer at an event in Mumbai. Also Read: ODI World Cup: Australia, Afghanistan register win in warm-ups, India vs Netherlands washed out “South Africa’s history when it comes to ICC tournaments isn’t great,” he added. “They have this tag of 'chokers' also which goes with them. But somehow, looking at the way they played against Australia recently, I think they could be the dark horse. If certain players from their squad come good in the Indian conditions, they will definitely be a force to reckon with.” Notably, South Africa beat Australia 3-2 in the five-match ODI series before arriving in India for the World Cup. The Proteas were 0-2 down in the series before making a spectacular comeback to win the series. Zaheer also mentioned that despite the teams ending in top four in the group stage, any team can beat anyone in the semis and finals. “The format is such that if you manage to be in the top four at the end of the league stage, you only need two more days of good cricket to win the title,” Zaheer said. “And in such a situation, anyone can beat anyone. How each team approaches the league stage and builds momentum will be crucial,” added Khan. South Africa start their World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka in the fourth match of the tournament on October 7 before taking on Australia in their next match on October 12.

ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa to spoil party for many teams, says former India pacer Zaheer Khan

<p>Axar Patel's injury opened the doors for R Ashwin's comeback in the ODI setup recently. After Axar suffered an injury during Asia Cup 2023, Ashwin was recalled in the ODI setup -- for the first time since early 2022 -- during the home ODIs versus Australia in the run-up to the 50-over World Cup, which starts on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the three ODIs, which India won 2-1, Ashwin replaced Axar in the CWC '23 final 15 as the latter is still recovering after&nbsp;the quadriceps strain. Now, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has backed the decision and feels Ashwin is the right choice to replace Axar.</p>

<p>Talking to India Today, Ganguly said, "He is an outstanding spinner. He is probably the best off-spinner in the world. And also, he is the best spinner in India. I always think that in this format specialist is very important in this format. It’s a very good decision. Maybe it is a coincidence as Axar Patel was out for injury. But I think it's a very good decision."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-cwc-23-in-india-would-bigger-achievement-for-england-than-2019-title-says-ex-captain-morgan-642402">Winning CWC '23 in India would bigger achievement for England than 2019 title, says ex-captain Morgan</a></strong></p>

<p>Ashwin was impressive in the opening two ODIs versus Australia, claiming four wickets. He will look to start the upcoming ODI World Cup with a bang as India take on the Aussies in both sides' respective openers on October 8 (Sunday) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.</p>

<p>Ashwin is a veteran of 115 ODIs and has accounted for 155 wickets. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India. Thus, his experience will come in handy for Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. as they look to replicate the 2011 success and also end India's ten-year-long ICC title drought.</p>

<p><strong>Here is India's final squad for World Cup 2023 -</strong></p>

<p>Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav</p>

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Axar Patel's injury opened the doors for R Ashwin's comeback in the ODI setup recently. After Axar suffered an injury during Asia Cup 2023, Ashwin was recalled in the ODI setup -- for the first time since early 2022 -- during the home ODIs versus Australia in the run-up to the 50-over World Cup, which starts on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad.

Axar Patel's injury opened the doors for R Ashwin's comeback in the ODI setup recently. After Axar suffered an injury during Asia Cup 2023, Ashwin was recalled in the ODI setup -- for the first time since early 2022 -- during the home ODIs versus Australia in the run-up to the 50-over World Cup, which starts on Thursday (October 5) in Ahmedabad. After the three ODIs, which India won 2-1, Ashwin replaced Axar in the CWC '23 final 15 as the latter is still recovering after the quadriceps strain. Now, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has backed the decision and feels Ashwin is the right choice to replace Axar. Talking to India Today, Ganguly said, "He is an outstanding spinner. He is probably the best off-spinner in the world. And also, he is the best spinner in India. I always think that in this format specialist is very important in this format. It’s a very good decision. Maybe it is a coincidence as Axar Patel was out for injury. But I think it's a very good decision." Also read: Winning CWC '23 in India would bigger achievement for England than 2019 title, says ex-captain Morgan Ashwin was impressive in the opening two ODIs versus Australia, claiming four wickets. He will look to start the upcoming ODI World Cup with a bang as India take on the Aussies in both sides' respective openers on October 8 (Sunday) at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Ashwin is a veteran of 115 ODIs and has accounted for 155 wickets. He was part of India's victorious run in the 2011 ODI World Cup, co-hosted by India. Thus, his experience will come in handy for Rohit Sharma & Co. as they look to replicate the 2011 success and also end India's ten-year-long ICC title drought. Here is India's final squad for World Cup 2023 - Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

R Ashwin’s inclusion in Team India's CWC '23 squad is very good decision: Former captain Sourav Ganguly

Defending champions England are all set to take on 2015 and 2019 runners up New Zealand in the opening game of ODI World Cup 2023 on October 5. While Ben Stokes is making a comeback for England in ODIs for the quadrennial event, Kiwis will be without their regular skipper Kane Williamson. Nonetheless, there are enough match-winners on each side and here are some top players to watch out for in the game between 2019's finalists.

ODI World Cup 2023, England vs New Zealand: Top players to watch out in tournament opener

<p>England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan feels winning the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) in India, would be a bigger achievement for Jos Buttler-led defending champions after their 2019 success. In the last edition, held in England and Wales, Morgan-led England won the ODI World Cup for the first time ever, beating New Zealand in terms of boundary count in an epic final at Lord's on July 14.</p>

<p>Buttler-led England will start the tournament as one of the favourites. Morgan believes winning the title this time around would be a bigger achievement as he feels the white-ball captain&nbsp;Buttler has not had the same level of support in the build-up to this World Cup as Morgan had ahead of the 2019 edition. Back then, England were revamping their white-ball teams following a disastrous 2015 World Cup. Thus, the priority was white-ball cricket.</p>

<p>In recent times, Test cricket has regained priority in England cricket due to Ashes 2021/22 and Ashes 2023. A lot of times, Buttler has not been able to field the main XI with many being rested for Test cricket. Even in last year's T20 World Cup, which Buttler &amp; Co. won in Australia, a lot of the regulars featured together after a long gap. Thus, Morgan believes it will be a bigger achievement for England to win this upcoming edition, which is also being played in&nbsp;unfamiliar conditions.</p>

<p>In his column for Sky Sports, Morgan wrote, "The challenges for me going into 2019 were completely different to what Jos has gone through coming into this tournament. Between 2015 and 2019, our sole focus was trying to win the ODI World Cup at home. There was a clear emphasis on having your best players available in the year leading up and trying to get absolute role clarity in every position possible. Jos has not had that."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/new-zealands-tim-southee-hoping-to-be-right-in-time-post-injury-for-odi-world-cup-opener-against-england-642360">New Zealand's Tim Southee 'hoping to be right in time' post injury for ODI World Cup opener against England</a></strong></p>

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<p>"All things considered, it would without a doubt be a bigger achievement for England to win this World Cup than when we won in 2019. The nature of the schedule has not allowed them to have the type of preparation they would like and being away from home, especially in India where India are so strong, is tough. Winning here would carry a lot more weight than winning at home. I am still extremely hopeful that England can defend the title, though," Morgan added.</p>

<p>Winning the ODI World Cup is certainly not easy but defending it is much more difficult. Only West Indies (1975 and 1979) and Australia (who won three in a row in 1999, 2003 and 2007) have managed to defend their titles. Hence, England have a herculean task -- despite having one of the strongest squads -- to win the upcoming edition in India.</p>

<p>The one-time winners face New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad in the CWC 2023 opener on Thursday afternoon.</p>

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England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan feels winning the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) in India, would be a bigger achievement for Jos Buttler-led defending champions after their 2019 success.

England's World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan feels winning the CWC 2023 edition, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) in India, would be a bigger achievement for Jos Buttler-led defending champions after their 2019 success. In the last edition, held in England and Wales, Morgan-led England won the ODI World Cup for the first time ever, beating New Zealand in terms of boundary count in an epic final at Lord's on July 14. Buttler-led England will start the tournament as one of the favourites. Morgan believes winning the title this time around would be a bigger achievement as he feels the white-ball captain Buttler has not had the same level of support in the build-up to this World Cup as Morgan had ahead of the 2019 edition. Back then, England were revamping their white-ball teams following a disastrous 2015 World Cup. Thus, the priority was white-ball cricket. In recent times, Test cricket has regained priority in England cricket due to Ashes 2021/22 and Ashes 2023. A lot of times, Buttler has not been able to field the main XI with many being rested for Test cricket. Even in last year's T20 World Cup, which Buttler & Co. won in Australia, a lot of the regulars featured together after a long gap. Thus, Morgan believes it will be a bigger achievement for England to win this upcoming edition, which is also being played in unfamiliar conditions. In his column for Sky Sports, Morgan wrote, "The challenges for me going into 2019 were completely different to what Jos has gone through coming into this tournament. Between 2015 and 2019, our sole focus was trying to win the ODI World Cup at home. There was a clear emphasis on having your best players available in the year leading up and trying to get absolute role clarity in every position possible. Jos has not had that." Also read: New Zealand's Tim Southee 'hoping to be right in time' post injury for ODI World Cup opener against England × "All things considered, it would without a doubt be a bigger achievement for England to win this World Cup than when we won in 2019. The nature of the schedule has not allowed them to have the type of preparation they would like and being away from home, especially in India where India are so strong, is tough. Winning here would carry a lot more weight than winning at home. I am still extremely hopeful that England can defend the title, though," Morgan added. Winning the ODI World Cup is certainly not easy but defending it is much more difficult. Only West Indies (1975 and 1979) and Australia (who won three in a row in 1999, 2003 and 2007) have managed to defend their titles. Hence, England have a herculean task -- despite having one of the strongest squads -- to win the upcoming edition in India. The one-time winners face New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad in the CWC 2023 opener on Thursday afternoon. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Winning CWC '23 in India would be bigger achievement for England than 2019 title, says ex-captain Morgan

CWC '23: From Sourav Ganguly to Md Azharuddin! Indian captains with most sixes in an ODI World Cup

<p>The New Zealand World Cup squad got a much-needed impetus to their chances as injured fast bowler Tim Southee is getting back to building a bowling load ahead of the tournament opener against England on October 5. The bowler had fractured his right thumb during the ODI series against England in the build-up for the quadrennial event.</p>

<p>"It's still a bit tender where obviously there's a bit of scarring and a bit of numbness around where the plate is," Southee said after arrival in Ahmedabad ahead of New Zealand's game against England.</p>

<p><strong>Also Watch:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-fielders-trolled-by-indian-cricketer-for-brainfade-moment-in-field-642196">Pakistan fielders trolled by Indian cricketer for 'brainfade' moment in field</a></p>

<p>"So I guess it's just [about] getting used to that. And getting back into some bowling. Haven't done a lot of bowling over the last couple of weeks, so it's about getting your loads back up as well as managing the thumb."</p>

<p>The fast bowler acknowledged that the prospects of him bowling were not so high when he got injured but he has managed to recover a bit in time.</p>

<p>"It's been a crazy couple of weeks," Southee said. "A bit of a race against time to get here, but managed to get here and it's a great place to come. It's an awesome place to come and play cricket, let alone being a World Cup," he added.</p>

<p>Talking about the injury, Southee revealed that he hasn't suffered an injury like this before and that he hopes to be right in time with the recovery process.</p>

<p>"[The injury was] something new. Haven't done an injury like this before. I guess when something like that happens so close to a world event, your mind starts to drift towards that. With the limited time we had, I guess sitting down and working out the fastest recovery time, and the route back was to chuck some screws in it and a plate and hope for the best. Everyone I've dealt with and the process has been brilliant to get me to this stage. So fingers crossed we can carry on the recovery process and be right in time."</p>

<p>This would be Southee's fourth World Cup appearance, having already taken part in the 2011, 2015 and 2019 editions. The Black Caps were finalists in both the 2015 and 2019 editions while being the only non-Asian team in the 2011 semifinals.</p>

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The New Zealand World Cup squad got a much-needed impetus to their chances as injured fast bowler Tim Southee is getting back to building a bowling load ahead of the tournament opener against England on October 5.

The New Zealand World Cup squad got a much-needed impetus to their chances as injured fast bowler Tim Southee is getting back to building a bowling load ahead of the tournament opener against England on October 5. The bowler had fractured his right thumb during the ODI series against England in the build-up for the quadrennial event. "It's still a bit tender where obviously there's a bit of scarring and a bit of numbness around where the plate is," Southee said after arrival in Ahmedabad ahead of New Zealand's game against England. Also Watch: Pakistan fielders trolled by Indian cricketer for 'brainfade' moment in field "So I guess it's just [about] getting used to that. And getting back into some bowling. Haven't done a lot of bowling over the last couple of weeks, so it's about getting your loads back up as well as managing the thumb." The fast bowler acknowledged that the prospects of him bowling were not so high when he got injured but he has managed to recover a bit in time. "It's been a crazy couple of weeks," Southee said. "A bit of a race against time to get here, but managed to get here and it's a great place to come. It's an awesome place to come and play cricket, let alone being a World Cup," he added. Talking about the injury, Southee revealed that he hasn't suffered an injury like this before and that he hopes to be right in time with the recovery process. "[The injury was] something new. Haven't done an injury like this before. I guess when something like that happens so close to a world event, your mind starts to drift towards that. With the limited time we had, I guess sitting down and working out the fastest recovery time, and the route back was to chuck some screws in it and a plate and hope for the best. Everyone I've dealt with and the process has been brilliant to get me to this stage. So fingers crossed we can carry on the recovery process and be right in time." This would be Southee's fourth World Cup appearance, having already taken part in the 2011, 2015 and 2019 editions. The Black Caps were finalists in both the 2015 and 2019 editions while being the only non-Asian team in the 2011 semifinals.

New Zealand's Tim Southee 'hoping to be right in time' post injury for ODI World Cup opener against England

<p>Former India World Cup winner Sandeep Patil has backed the selection of Ravichandran Ashwin in Team India as the team prepares for the latest edition. Ashwin, a surprise selection in the 15-member squad was down the pecking order before getting the nod for the World Cup with Axar Patel injured. According to Patil, he was not surprised when the veteran spinner was drafted into the team for the World Cup.</p>

<h2><strong>Sandeep Patil backs Ashwin’s selection</strong></h2>

<p>“Ashwin’s inclusion wasn’t a surprise at all. Not at all,” Patil was quoted as saying by The Telegraph Online.</p>

<p>“He’s the best off-spinner in world cricket today and I’m happy to see he’s in. I also feel sorry for Axar, who got injured. But then, you know, it was a blessing in disguise (for India).”</p>

<p>"It will be all about enjoying the game. I have been saying that this might be my last World Cup for India. But I just want to keep enjoying as life is all about surprises."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-want-to-set-new-benchmark-for-women-athletes-in-india-jyothi-yarraji-after-asian-games-success-641743">EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success</a></p>

<h2><strong>Ashwin’s wildcard entry</strong></h2>

<p>The experienced spinner returned to the Indian team for the tri-series against Australia in September while Axar was serving time out with injury. While Yuzvendra Chahal was deemed an automatic replacement for Axar, the selectors opted to go with Ashwin. One of the key reasons for his inclusion in the team was his batting ability. The Chennai-born veteran has an impressive record with bat and ball in all the formats; but had not played in the ODI format since January 2022 until the Australia series.</p>

<p>While the numbers game favours Chahal in the limited-overs format, having scalped 121 wickets in 72 ODI matches for India while Ashwin has 155 wickets in 115 matches. Ashwin has been India’s best Test bowler in the last decade and has amassed 489 wickets in the longer format. In the T20I format, Chahal leads the list for most wickets with 96 for India while Ashwin stands with 72 scalps.</p>

<p>The Indian team will now look to reap rewards on the bigger front when they start their World Cup campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 in Ashwin’s hometown Chennai.</p>

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Former India World Cup winner Sandeep Patil has backed the selection of Ravichandran Ashwin in Team India as the team prepares for the latest edition. Ashwin, a surprise selection in the 15-member squad was down the pecking order before getting the nod for the World Cup with Axar Patel injured.

Former India World Cup winner Sandeep Patil has backed the selection of Ravichandran Ashwin in Team India as the team prepares for the latest edition. Ashwin, a surprise selection in the 15-member squad was down the pecking order before getting the nod for the World Cup with Axar Patel injured. According to Patil, he was not surprised when the veteran spinner was drafted into the team for the World Cup. Sandeep Patil backs Ashwin’s selection “Ashwin’s inclusion wasn’t a surprise at all. Not at all,” Patil was quoted as saying by The Telegraph Online. “He’s the best off-spinner in world cricket today and I’m happy to see he’s in. I also feel sorry for Axar, who got injured. But then, you know, it was a blessing in disguise (for India).” "It will be all about enjoying the game. I have been saying that this might be my last World Cup for India. But I just want to keep enjoying as life is all about surprises." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Want to set new benchmark for women athletes in India - Jyothi Yarraji after Asian Games success Ashwin’s wildcard entry The experienced spinner returned to the Indian team for the tri-series against Australia in September while Axar was serving time out with injury. While Yuzvendra Chahal was deemed an automatic replacement for Axar, the selectors opted to go with Ashwin. One of the key reasons for his inclusion in the team was his batting ability. The Chennai-born veteran has an impressive record with bat and ball in all the formats; but had not played in the ODI format since January 2022 until the Australia series. While the numbers game favours Chahal in the limited-overs format, having scalped 121 wickets in 72 ODI matches for India while Ashwin has 155 wickets in 115 matches. Ashwin has been India’s best Test bowler in the last decade and has amassed 489 wickets in the longer format. In the T20I format, Chahal leads the list for most wickets with 96 for India while Ashwin stands with 72 scalps. The Indian team will now look to reap rewards on the bigger front when they start their World Cup campaign against Australia on Sunday, October 8 in Ashwin’s hometown Chennai. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Former player backs Ravi Ashwin's selection in Team India, says 'his inclusion wasn’t surprise'

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With the mega event less than two days away from commencement, many former and active cricketers have shared their predictions. England's Test specialist James Anderson has also joined the bandwagon and made a bold claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anderson feels England, India, Australia and South Africa will be in the four semi-finals whereas England and India will proceed to the final, on November 19 in Ahmedabad. The 41-year-old added that he feels the defending champions England will go past India in a tight final.</p>

<p>Speaking to the BBC Test Match Special, Anderson stated, "The semi-finalists will be England, India, Australia and South Africa. I like how South Africa turned it around in their series against Australia. Their batting is strong and they have nice options with the ball. Pakistan will be close, as will New Zealand, but both will miss out. I can see England beating India in a tight final."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-sunil-gavaskar-reacts-to-ravindra-jadejas-batting-woes-points-out-little-things-in-his-support-642080">CWC 2023: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's batting woes, points out 'little things' in his support</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, recently-retired England pacer Steven Finn feels England, India, Pakistan and New Zealand will end at the top four but has backed Rohit &amp; Co. to win the coveted title. Finn has backed India as the home team have won the last three editions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Finn opined, "This World Cup is the most open there has been in a long time. The lack of 50-over cricket in the build-up will mean some teams will go in slightly muddled about how they approach this format. The four that will reach the semis are England, New Zealand, India and Pakistan. They have the most balanced squads."</p>

<p>"The last three World Cups have been won by hosts - India in 2011, Australia in 2015 and England four years ago. With that in mind, India will win it again this year. They have played significantly more one-dayers than anyone else and home support will be a big advantage," he added.</p>

<p><strong>England squad:</strong>&nbsp;Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes.</p>

<p>India squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav.</p>

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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition gets underway on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the Rohit Sharma-led India will open their campaign on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. With the mega event less than two days away from commencement, many former and active cricketers have shared their predictions. England's Test specialist James Anderson has also joined the bandwagon and made a bold claim. Anderson feels England, India, Australia and South Africa will be in the four semi-finals whereas England and India will proceed to the final, on November 19 in Ahmedabad. The 41-year-old added that he feels the defending champions England will go past India in a tight final. Speaking to the BBC Test Match Special, Anderson stated, "The semi-finalists will be England, India, Australia and South Africa. I like how South Africa turned it around in their series against Australia. Their batting is strong and they have nice options with the ball. Pakistan will be close, as will New Zealand, but both will miss out. I can see England beating India in a tight final." Also Read: CWC 2023: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's batting woes, points out 'little things' in his support On the other hand, recently-retired England pacer Steven Finn feels England, India, Pakistan and New Zealand will end at the top four but has backed Rohit & Co. to win the coveted title. Finn has backed India as the home team have won the last three editions. Finn opined, "This World Cup is the most open there has been in a long time. The lack of 50-over cricket in the build-up will mean some teams will go in slightly muddled about how they approach this format. The four that will reach the semis are England, New Zealand, India and Pakistan. They have the most balanced squads." "The last three World Cups have been won by hosts - India in 2011, Australia in 2015 and England four years ago. With that in mind, India will win it again this year. They have played significantly more one-dayers than anyone else and home support will be a big advantage," he added. England squad: Jos Buttler (c), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes. India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'I can see England beating India in a tight CWC 2023 final': James Anderson shares BOLD prediction

<p>Ruturaj Gaikwad-led India opened their campaign in Asian Games 2023 with a 23-run win over Nepal on Tuesday (October 3). Riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's maiden T20I ton (49-ball 100) and Rinku Singh's 15-ball 37 not out, India posted 202 for 4 and restricted the opposition to 179 for 9. With the win, India have progressed to the semi-finals. Jaiswal continued his rich form and scored his first-ever T20I century. In addition, he surpassed Shubman Gill to achieve a major Indian record.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaiswal, at the age of 21 years and 279 days, went past Gill's T20I record of being India's youngest-ever centurion in the shortest format. It is to be noted that the right-hander scored his maiden T20I hundred against New Zealand early this year. The 24-year-old Gill&nbsp;had smashed an impressive 126 not out, the highest individual score by an Indian in the format. Back then, Gill was 23 years old.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-rohit-can-afford-to-play-the-accumulator-role-and-score-big-hundreds-feels-former-india-batter-642029">CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter</a></strong></p>

<p>Talking about Jaiswal, the left-hander has been in sublime form this year. He ended IPL 2023 as the fifth-highest run-getter (with 625 runs in 14 games, including a best of 124). He carried his form during India's all-format tour of West Indies, slamming an impressive 171 on his Test debut and was among the runs in the five T20Is as well. Now, the youngster has started the Asian Games with a bang. Hence, he will be desperate to carry on with the momentum and take India to gold at the games -- where he also became the country's first-ever centurion on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaiswal is surely ticking all the boxes at the moment and is emerging as a strong contender to open for India in the next year's T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. However, the mega event is still far away, hence, he would like to maintain consistency in the upcoming months.</p>

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Ruturaj Gaikwad-led India opened their campaign in Asian Games 2023 with a 23-run win over Nepal on Tuesday (October 3). Riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's maiden T20I ton (49-ball 100) and Rinku Singh's 15-ball 37 not out, India posted 202 for 4 and restricted the opposition to 179 for 9.

Ruturaj Gaikwad-led India opened their campaign in Asian Games 2023 with a 23-run win over Nepal on Tuesday (October 3). Riding on Yashasvi Jaiswal's maiden T20I ton (49-ball 100) and Rinku Singh's 15-ball 37 not out, India posted 202 for 4 and restricted the opposition to 179 for 9. With the win, India have progressed to the semi-finals. Jaiswal continued his rich form and scored his first-ever T20I century. In addition, he surpassed Shubman Gill to achieve a major Indian record. Jaiswal, at the age of 21 years and 279 days, went past Gill's T20I record of being India's youngest-ever centurion in the shortest format. It is to be noted that the right-hander scored his maiden T20I hundred against New Zealand early this year. The 24-year-old Gill had smashed an impressive 126 not out, the highest individual score by an Indian in the format. Back then, Gill was 23 years old. Also read: CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter Talking about Jaiswal, the left-hander has been in sublime form this year. He ended IPL 2023 as the fifth-highest run-getter (with 625 runs in 14 games, including a best of 124). He carried his form during India's all-format tour of West Indies, slamming an impressive 171 on his Test debut and was among the runs in the five T20Is as well. Now, the youngster has started the Asian Games with a bang. Hence, he will be desperate to carry on with the momentum and take India to gold at the games -- where he also became the country's first-ever centurion on Tuesday. Jaiswal is surely ticking all the boxes at the moment and is emerging as a strong contender to open for India in the next year's T20 World Cup, in West Indies and the USA. However, the mega event is still far away, hence, he would like to maintain consistency in the upcoming months. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India vs Nepal, Asian Games: Yashasvi Jaiswal breaks Shubman Gill's India record after maiden T20I ton

<p>India will start their campaign in the CWC 2023 edition on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. While India ticked most of the boxes in the Asia Cup and home ODIs versus Australia, Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. would be concerned with Ravindra Jadeja's batting struggles. Jadeja has not made a solid impression in the limited opportunities in recent times&nbsp;while batting down the order. He has not scored a half-century in the ODI format since 2020. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar isn't concerned with Jadeja's low returns and mentions a key aspect of Jadeja.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to a question from Hindustan Times, Gavaskar stated, "Not really. With the kind of experience that he has, it's not a worry. The important thing is that he is such a fast runner between the wickets. Often, we overlook it… the fact that from the non-striker end, he helps the batter convert ones into twos. So, I think those are the little things that are important. So yeah, I am not worried after Ravindra Jadeja at all. He is a top player, a wonderful player… rockstar, like Shane Warne once said."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-23-rohit-can-afford-to-play-the-accumulator-role-and-score-big-hundreds-feels-former-india-batter-642029">CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter</a></strong></p>

<p>Batting mostly at No. 7 or 8, Jadeja has played some vital knocks down the order but has not made a significant contribution. In the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot on September 27, the 34-year-old all-rounder had a chance to get some runs under his belt and regain confidence, given India were out of the contest reeling at 249 for 6 in pursuit of a mammoth 353. However, the left-hander was seen struggling to get momentum and returned for a 36-ball 35.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder will be vital for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup at home. Not only with the ball, Jadeja will be needed with the bat as well -- down the order -- as Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led team management has often preferred batting depth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CWC 2023 edition kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

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India will start their campaign in the CWC 2023 edition on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. While India ticked most of the boxes in the Asia Cup and home ODIs versus Australia, Rohit Sharma & Co.

India will start their campaign in the CWC 2023 edition on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. While India ticked most of the boxes in the Asia Cup and home ODIs versus Australia, Rohit Sharma & Co. would be concerned with Ravindra Jadeja's batting struggles. Jadeja has not made a solid impression in the limited opportunities in recent times while batting down the order. He has not scored a half-century in the ODI format since 2020. However, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar isn't concerned with Jadeja's low returns and mentions a key aspect of Jadeja. In response to a question from Hindustan Times, Gavaskar stated, "Not really. With the kind of experience that he has, it's not a worry. The important thing is that he is such a fast runner between the wickets. Often, we overlook it… the fact that from the non-striker end, he helps the batter convert ones into twos. So, I think those are the little things that are important. So yeah, I am not worried after Ravindra Jadeja at all. He is a top player, a wonderful player… rockstar, like Shane Warne once said." Also read: CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter Batting mostly at No. 7 or 8, Jadeja has played some vital knocks down the order but has not made a significant contribution. In the third and final ODI between India and Australia, in Rajkot on September 27, the 34-year-old all-rounder had a chance to get some runs under his belt and regain confidence, given India were out of the contest reeling at 249 for 6 in pursuit of a mammoth 353. However, the left-hander was seen struggling to get momentum and returned for a 36-ball 35. The star all-rounder will be vital for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup at home. Not only with the ball, Jadeja will be needed with the bat as well -- down the order -- as Rohit-Rahul Dravid-led team management has often preferred batting depth. The CWC 2023 edition kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ravindra Jadeja's batting woes, points out 'little things' in his support

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for. In the recent past, especially since taking over as the Indian captain, Rohit has often tried to go hard at the top to help India start aggressively. However, he has often paid the price for losing his wicket after getting starts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, Bangar feels Rohit should play the accumulator's role in the upcoming marquee event, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I feel the one of an accumulator (on what role should he play?). He is someone who has had phenomenal success as an ODI player. And many times that he has scored his hundred, it's around the 30th over. All those 3 double hundreds that we speak of and rave of so much, the acceleration came toward the last 10-12 overs where he just toys with the bowling," Bangar told Star Sports in response to a question from India Today.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-bumrah-but-this-indian-bowler-to-wreak-havoc-in-world-cup-mohammed-amir-641863">Not Bumrah, but THIS Indian bowler to wreak havoc in World Cup: Mohammed Amir</a></strong></p>

<p>Bangar further pointed out, "So a dangerous Rohit Sharma, if he gets to that 35-over mark, then India is assured of a score of around 350. If he sticks to that sort of a template&nbsp;I know he is trying to do certain other things, maybe take the game away from the bowlers, but he has got a phenomenal, fearless Shubman Gill, he can afford to play the accumulator which will guarantee that India will get a big total. Everyone wants to bat long and score those 150s and 170s. I still want to do that, but it is always nice to do something that you have not done. It only adds up to your list of batting abilities. Unless you do it, you won't know it.</p>

<p>''I know if I play high-risk shots, I will get out a few times but I didn't bother. This was communicated by me to the management that this is how I want to play," the former Indian opener added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be interesting to see if Rohit takes on the bowlers from the word go in the World Cup or starts cautiously before going berserk. Having led India to the Asia Cup title last month, he will be confident leading India in the ICC event. India will look to win their third ODI World Cup and also end their ten-year-long ICC title drought.&nbsp;</p>

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Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for.

Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 8 (Sunday) when they face Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. Ahead of India's tournament opener, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels the Indian captain can play the accumulator role, rather than being the aggressor at the top, in the mega event as it will help him score daddy hundreds he is known for. In the recent past, especially since taking over as the Indian captain, Rohit has often tried to go hard at the top to help India start aggressively. However, he has often paid the price for losing his wicket after getting starts. Thus, Bangar feels Rohit should play the accumulator's role in the upcoming marquee event, which kicks off on October 5 (Thursday) with defending champions England taking on New Zealand. "I feel the one of an accumulator (on what role should he play?). He is someone who has had phenomenal success as an ODI player. And many times that he has scored his hundred, it's around the 30th over. All those 3 double hundreds that we speak of and rave of so much, the acceleration came toward the last 10-12 overs where he just toys with the bowling," Bangar told Star Sports in response to a question from India Today. Also read: Not Bumrah, but THIS Indian bowler to wreak havoc in World Cup: Mohammed Amir Bangar further pointed out, "So a dangerous Rohit Sharma, if he gets to that 35-over mark, then India is assured of a score of around 350. If he sticks to that sort of a template I know he is trying to do certain other things, maybe take the game away from the bowlers, but he has got a phenomenal, fearless Shubman Gill, he can afford to play the accumulator which will guarantee that India will get a big total. Everyone wants to bat long and score those 150s and 170s. I still want to do that, but it is always nice to do something that you have not done. It only adds up to your list of batting abilities. Unless you do it, you won't know it. ''I know if I play high-risk shots, I will get out a few times but I didn't bother. This was communicated by me to the management that this is how I want to play," the former Indian opener added. It will be interesting to see if Rohit takes on the bowlers from the word go in the World Cup or starts cautiously before going berserk. Having led India to the Asia Cup title last month, he will be confident leading India in the ICC event. India will look to win their third ODI World Cup and also end their ten-year-long ICC title drought. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23: Rohit can afford to play the accumulator role and score big hundreds, feels former India batter

<p>Pakistan started their CWC 2023 preparations in India by locking horns with New Zealand in their first warm-up game, on Friday (Sep&nbsp;29), at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Despite making a mammoth 345&nbsp;for 5, riding on Mohammed Rizwan's 103, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green failed to defend the score as the Black Caps won by five wickets, with 38 balls to spare, courtesy of fifties from Rachin Ravindra (97), Darly Mitchell (59), Kane Williamson (54) and Mark Chapman (65*)</p>

<p>After Pakistan's big loss, former captain-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja has made a big claim. Ramiz was quick to point out that he wasn't&nbsp;pleased with the national side's&nbsp;approach. The veteran stated that Pakistan need to bat according to the nature of pitches in India, insisting that Babar &amp; Co. will have to score more freely and aim for totals&nbsp;over '400.'</p>

<p>Ramiz said while talking to the broadcasters, "I know it was just a practice game, but a win is a win. And winning becomes a habit. But I feel Pakistan are now getting a habit of losing. First they lost in Asia Cup, and now here. Pakistan scored 345 and it was a great run-chase. If these are the pitches – and you will get such pitches in India – you will have to score 400 if your bowling keeps misfiring like this. You will have to change your tactics, take risks. And we don't do that. We play defensively for first 10-15 overs and then shift gears."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-big-claim-gautam-gambhir-makes-century-prediction-for-pakistan-captain-babar-azam-641725">CWC 2023: BIG CLAIM! Gautam Gambhir makes 'century' prediction for Pakistan captain Babar Azam</a></strong></p>

<p>It is to be noted that while their bowlers had an off day, they were without Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan (who batted but opted not to bowl).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, it will&nbsp;be interesting to see if Pakistan change their approach in their remaining warm-up game, where they lock horns with Australia on October 3 in Hyderabad.</p>

<p>The 1992 winners open their campaign in the ODI World Cup on Friday (October 6) when they face the Netherlands. Babar &amp; Co. will then meet Sri Lanka with their opening two games at the same venue in Hyderabad before travelling to Ahmedabad for the marquee clash versus India on October 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Pakistan squad for World Cup</b>: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali</p>

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Pakistan started their CWC 2023 preparations in India by locking horns with New Zealand in their first warm-up game, on Friday (Sep 29), at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad.

Pakistan started their CWC 2023 preparations in India by locking horns with New Zealand in their first warm-up game, on Friday (Sep 29), at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Despite making a mammoth 345 for 5, riding on Mohammed Rizwan's 103, the Babar Azam-led Men in Green failed to defend the score as the Black Caps won by five wickets, with 38 balls to spare, courtesy of fifties from Rachin Ravindra (97), Darly Mitchell (59), Kane Williamson (54) and Mark Chapman (65*) After Pakistan's big loss, former captain-turned-commentator Ramiz Raja has made a big claim. Ramiz was quick to point out that he wasn't pleased with the national side's approach. The veteran stated that Pakistan need to bat according to the nature of pitches in India, insisting that Babar & Co. will have to score more freely and aim for totals over '400.' Ramiz said while talking to the broadcasters, "I know it was just a practice game, but a win is a win. And winning becomes a habit. But I feel Pakistan are now getting a habit of losing. First they lost in Asia Cup, and now here. Pakistan scored 345 and it was a great run-chase. If these are the pitches – and you will get such pitches in India – you will have to score 400 if your bowling keeps misfiring like this. You will have to change your tactics, take risks. And we don't do that. We play defensively for first 10-15 overs and then shift gears." Also read: CWC 2023: BIG CLAIM! Gautam Gambhir makes 'century' prediction for Pakistan captain Babar Azam It is to be noted that while their bowlers had an off day, they were without Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan (who batted but opted not to bowl). Now, it will be interesting to see if Pakistan change their approach in their remaining warm-up game, where they lock horns with Australia on October 3 in Hyderabad. The 1992 winners open their campaign in the ODI World Cup on Friday (October 6) when they face the Netherlands. Babar & Co. will then meet Sri Lanka with their opening two games at the same venue in Hyderabad before travelling to Ahmedabad for the marquee clash versus India on October 14. Pakistan squad for World Cup: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan will have to score 400: Ramiz Raja's take after Babar & Co.'s CWC '23 warm-up loss vs NZ

<p>Babar Azam-led Pakistan arrived in India last week for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 5 in Ahmedabad. The entire team received a warm welcome in Hyderabad, where they play their two warm-up games and their opening two encounters as well. Ahead of the tournament-opener, where defending champions England lock horns with New Zealand on Thursday, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a bold claim on Pakistan captain Babar.</p>

<p>Gambhir, while speaking on Star Sports, first backed Rohit Sharma to lead from the front for Team India and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought in the upcoming World Cup. He backed Rohit to be among the runs in favourable batting conditions and said, "The kind of ability he has. India are playing the World Cup at home. We all know about Rohit Sharma's record at home. He has three or four double hundreds. So I'm sure he will be really looking forward to and he will be eager to turn it around for India."</p>

<p>It is to be noted that Rohit has amassed 4,148 runs in 80 ODIs, averaging&nbsp;a healthy 58.42, while playing at home.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-virat-kohli-to-win-world-cup-2023-and-be-carried-on-shoulders-former-india-star-virender-sehwag-641698">Want Virat Kohli to win World Cup 2023 and be carried on shoulders: Former India star Virender Sehwag</a></strong></p>

<p>Gambhir then shifted focus on Babar and predicted that the Pakistan star batter will score 'three or four centuries' in the 50-over mega event.</p>

<p>"The kind of technique Babar Azam has, I think he will score three or four centuries for Pakistan in this World Cup."</p>

<p>Babar is gearing up for his first international match in India when his side open their CWC 2023 campaign on October 6 (Friday) versus the Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in&nbsp;Hyderabad. They will then face Sri Lanka, at the same venue, before locking horns with arch-rivals India on October 14 in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Pakistan squad for World Cup</b>: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali</p>

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Babar Azam-led Pakistan arrived in India last week for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 5 in Ahmedabad. The entire team received a warm welcome in Hyderabad, where they play their two warm-up games and their opening two encounters as well.

Babar Azam-led Pakistan arrived in India last week for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, which gets underway on October 5 in Ahmedabad. The entire team received a warm welcome in Hyderabad, where they play their two warm-up games and their opening two encounters as well. Ahead of the tournament-opener, where defending champions England lock horns with New Zealand on Thursday, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir made a bold claim on Pakistan captain Babar. Gambhir, while speaking on Star Sports, first backed Rohit Sharma to lead from the front for Team India and end their ten-year-long ICC title drought in the upcoming World Cup. He backed Rohit to be among the runs in favourable batting conditions and said, "The kind of ability he has. India are playing the World Cup at home. We all know about Rohit Sharma's record at home. He has three or four double hundreds. So I'm sure he will be really looking forward to and he will be eager to turn it around for India." It is to be noted that Rohit has amassed 4,148 runs in 80 ODIs, averaging a healthy 58.42, while playing at home. Also read: Want Virat Kohli to win World Cup 2023 and be carried on shoulders: Former India star Virender Sehwag Gambhir then shifted focus on Babar and predicted that the Pakistan star batter will score 'three or four centuries' in the 50-over mega event. "The kind of technique Babar Azam has, I think he will score three or four centuries for Pakistan in this World Cup." Babar is gearing up for his first international match in India when his side open their CWC 2023 campaign on October 6 (Friday) versus the Netherlands at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. They will then face Sri Lanka, at the same venue, before locking horns with arch-rivals India on October 14 in Ahmedabad. Pakistan squad for World Cup: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: BIG CLAIM! Gautam Gambhir makes 'century' prediction for Pakistan captain Babar Azam

<p>The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the tournament-opener, many former cricketers and experts have shared their predictions for the upcoming marquee event in India. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has also made a bold claim by stating that the World Cup could belong to India's in-form batter Shubman Gill.</p>

<p>Shubman has been in exceptional form in 2023, especially in the ODI format. He has so far scored 1,230 runs in 20 innings along with as many as five centuries. Overall, he is the No. 2 ranked ODI batter (after Babar Azam) and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the recent India-Australia ODIs, at home. Thus, all eyes are on the 24-year-old as one waits to see&nbsp;how he will respond to the World Cup pressure.</p>

<p>Chopra believes Gill will do exceptionally well and this could be his World Cup, with at least two or three hundreds.</p>

<h2><strong>'Gill is a quality player and this World Cup could be his'</strong></h2>

<p>On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "This tournament could be Shubman Gill’s. In all fairness, the tournament will belong to the top three batters. The good ones will make a lot of records. Shubman Gill will score a lot of runs. I feel he will score at least two hundreds; I won’t be surprised if he hits three as well. One of them could be a daddy hundred if he doesn’t get tired. Gill is a quality player and this World Cup could be his."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-big-claim-gautam-gambhir-makes-century-prediction-for-pakistan-captain-babar-azam-641725">CWC 2023: BIG CLAIM! Gautam Gambhir makes 'century' prediction for Pakistan captain Babar Azam</a></strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="attribution-reporting" aria-label="Advertisement" data-google-container-id="4" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/1007232/IT_Teads_1x1_0" role="region" scrolling="no" tabindex="0" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>The former cricketer also lauded Gill for working on his game against left-arm spinners in the recent past, highlighting&nbsp;his impressive 121 in India-Bangladesh Super Four stage of Asia Cup 2023.</p>

<p>“At one point of time, it seemed like he gets stuck against left-arm spin. But he showed he can take that on as well during his last hundred in the Asia Cup. It was his best ODI knock in my opinion,"&nbsp;Chopra added.</p>

<h2><strong>'Shubman Gill has the potential to become the best player of this generation'</strong></h2>

<p>Yuvraj Singh also heaped praise on Gill during his recent interaction with The Week. He stated, "Shubman Gill has the potential to become the best player of this generation. The guy works hard. Since he was 19-20, his attitude has always been like that. He works four times harder than a normal guy since he was a kid. Whatever I have worked with him, he can be the player of this era."</p>

<p>"He (Gill) scored 91 in a Test match which India won (versus Australia in Gabba). He scored two fifties as well on his first tour to Australia which I don't know how many players have done. I am sure he will score runs in Australia, South Africa as well as England," Yuvraj opined.</p>

<p>The former all-rounder added, "He (Gill) is in such a stage right now that he is fearless. He can be a game-changer for India in the World Cup. He opened up the game against Pakistan and put the bowlers under pressure."</p>

<p>Overall, Gill has played 35 ODIs since his debut in 2019. He has&nbsp;scored a remarkable 1,917 runs with six hundreds, at an average of 66.10, with a best of 213.</p>

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 08 (Sunday) in Chennai, where they face Australia.&nbsp;</p>

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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the tournament-opener, many former cricketers and experts have shared their predictions for the upcoming marquee event in India.

The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 gets underway on October 5 with defending champions England taking on New Zealand in Ahmedabad. Ahead of the tournament-opener, many former cricketers and experts have shared their predictions for the upcoming marquee event in India. Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has also made a bold claim by stating that the World Cup could belong to India's in-form batter Shubman Gill. Shubman has been in exceptional form in 2023, especially in the ODI format. He has so far scored 1,230 runs in 20 innings along with as many as five centuries. Overall, he is the No. 2 ranked ODI batter (after Babar Azam) and ended as the Player-of-the-Series in the recent India-Australia ODIs, at home. Thus, all eyes are on the 24-year-old as one waits to see how he will respond to the World Cup pressure. Chopra believes Gill will do exceptionally well and this could be his World Cup, with at least two or three hundreds. 'Gill is a quality player and this World Cup could be his' On his YouTube channel, Chopra said, "This tournament could be Shubman Gill’s. In all fairness, the tournament will belong to the top three batters. The good ones will make a lot of records. Shubman Gill will score a lot of runs. I feel he will score at least two hundreds; I won’t be surprised if he hits three as well. One of them could be a daddy hundred if he doesn’t get tired. Gill is a quality player and this World Cup could be his." Also read: CWC 2023: BIG CLAIM! Gautam Gambhir makes 'century' prediction for Pakistan captain Babar Azam The former cricketer also lauded Gill for working on his game against left-arm spinners in the recent past, highlighting his impressive 121 in India-Bangladesh Super Four stage of Asia Cup 2023. “At one point of time, it seemed like he gets stuck against left-arm spin. But he showed he can take that on as well during his last hundred in the Asia Cup. It was his best ODI knock in my opinion," Chopra added. 'Shubman Gill has the potential to become the best player of this generation' Yuvraj Singh also heaped praise on Gill during his recent interaction with The Week. He stated, "Shubman Gill has the potential to become the best player of this generation. The guy works hard. Since he was 19-20, his attitude has always been like that. He works four times harder than a normal guy since he was a kid. Whatever I have worked with him, he can be the player of this era." "He (Gill) scored 91 in a Test match which India won (versus Australia in Gabba). He scored two fifties as well on his first tour to Australia which I don't know how many players have done. I am sure he will score runs in Australia, South Africa as well as England," Yuvraj opined. The former all-rounder added, "He (Gill) is in such a stage right now that he is fearless. He can be a game-changer for India in the World Cup. He opened up the game against Pakistan and put the bowlers under pressure." Overall, Gill has played 35 ODIs since his debut in 2019. He has scored a remarkable 1,917 runs with six hundreds, at an average of 66.10, with a best of 213. Rohit Sharma-led India open their campaign in CWC 2023 on October 08 (Sunday) in Chennai, where they face Australia. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC '23 could belong to THIS Indian batter: Aakash Chopra's bold claim, says 'he will score at least...'

<p>Pakistan’s pace bowler Haris Rauf went down memory lane as he reflected on his stint with Virat Kohli. Rauf, back in 2018-19, was the net bowler for India when Virat’s Team India was touring Australia. The Pakistan speedster reflected on how Virat tackled him in the nets even as the duo is now set to collide in the ODI World Cup that kickstarts on Thursday, October 5.</p>

<h2><strong>Haris goes down memory lane</strong></h2>

<p>“When I was a net bowler for the Indian team and was bowling to Virat Kohli, I felt like he knew exactly where the ball was going to hit his bat. He was very focused and that showed how sharp his concentration was,” Rauf said while speaking to Espncricinfo.</p>

<p>“Even during practice sessions in the nets, it felt like I was playing a match against him, despite being a net bowler. His remarkable control and intensity made me realise why he has such a reputation in the game.”</p>

<p>Both India and Pakistan are set to square off in the ODI World Cup on Saturday, October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India holds an unprecedented record against their arch-rivals, having never lost to them in seven previous World Cup meetings. Pakistan’s only World Cup win against India came in the 2021 T20 World Cup in UAE when Virat was in charge of the team.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-team-wasnt-gelled-well-there-were-no-discussions-moin-khan-after-pakistans-loss-to-nz-in-warm-up-641560">CWC 2023: Team wasn’t gelled well, there were no discussions: Moin Khan after Pakistan’s loss to NZ in warm-up</a></p>

<p>Rauf will be a key player for Pakistan as he looks to stamp his authority on Indian soil, making his first trip to the nation. On the flip side, Virat will also look to add to his 2011 ODI World Cup success as he targets another glorious outing. He and Ravichandran Ashwin are the only players who were part of the 2011 contingent and are participating&nbsp;in the upcoming edition.</p>

<p>Pakistan will start their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands, who came from the qualifiers on Friday, October 6, while India will be in action on Sunday. The Men in Blue will take on Australia in Chennai with Virat expected to fire on all cylinders.</p>

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Pakistan’s pace bowler Haris Rauf went down memory lane as he reflected on his stint with Virat Kohli. Rauf, back in 2018-19, was the net bowler for India when Virat’s Team India was touring Australia.

Pakistan’s pace bowler Haris Rauf went down memory lane as he reflected on his stint with Virat Kohli. Rauf, back in 2018-19, was the net bowler for India when Virat’s Team India was touring Australia. The Pakistan speedster reflected on how Virat tackled him in the nets even as the duo is now set to collide in the ODI World Cup that kickstarts on Thursday, October 5. Haris goes down memory lane “When I was a net bowler for the Indian team and was bowling to Virat Kohli, I felt like he knew exactly where the ball was going to hit his bat. He was very focused and that showed how sharp his concentration was,” Rauf said while speaking to Espncricinfo. “Even during practice sessions in the nets, it felt like I was playing a match against him, despite being a net bowler. His remarkable control and intensity made me realise why he has such a reputation in the game.” Both India and Pakistan are set to square off in the ODI World Cup on Saturday, October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. India holds an unprecedented record against their arch-rivals, having never lost to them in seven previous World Cup meetings. Pakistan’s only World Cup win against India came in the 2021 T20 World Cup in UAE when Virat was in charge of the team. ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Team wasn’t gelled well, there were no discussions: Moin Khan after Pakistan’s loss to NZ in warm-up Rauf will be a key player for Pakistan as he looks to stamp his authority on Indian soil, making his first trip to the nation. On the flip side, Virat will also look to add to his 2011 ODI World Cup success as he targets another glorious outing. He and Ravichandran Ashwin are the only players who were part of the 2011 contingent and are participating in the upcoming edition. Pakistan will start their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands, who came from the qualifiers on Friday, October 6, while India will be in action on Sunday. The Men in Blue will take on Australia in Chennai with Virat expected to fire on all cylinders. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

CWC 2023: Haris Rauf goes down memory lane with Virat Kohli, recalls bowling as net bowler to Indian legend

<p>Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement&nbsp;on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'. Meanwhile, he also heaped praise on in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav and called him the most formidable Indian bowler. Kuldeep has been on a stellar run and will enter the upcoming World Cup after helping India win the Asia Cup and returning as Player Of The Tournament.</p>

<p>On Rohit, Shadab told reporters in Hyderabad, "I admire Rohit Sharma a lot and, among the leading batsmen in the world, he is the most difficult to bowl at. Once he gets set, he becomes very dangerous. Among the bowlers, since I am a leg-spinner, it will be Kuldeep Yadav given his recent form."</p>

<p>Rohit had taken Shadab to the cleaners with some big sixes during India and Pakistan's last encounter, which took place during the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup in Colombo. In the face-off, Shadab ended with 71 runs in ten overs and claimed a solitary wicket. The experienced campaigner didn't bowl in Pakistan's first World Cup warm-up game, where they failed to defend 346 versus New Zealand in Hyderabad, and, thus, his form will be closely monitored in Men in Green's last practice clash, where they face Australia on October 03 in Hyderabad.</p>

<p>Shadab will look to draw inspiration from India's in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who ended with nine wickets in the Asia Cup. Lauding the 28-year-old, Shadab said, "As a leg spinner, I like Kuldeep Yadav a lot. He is a great leg spinner and in sublime form. Bowling in such conditions is not easy especially for a spinner as the tracks are flat but he has done well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-have-chance-to-create-history-david-miller-on-south-africa-breaking-world-cup-deadlock-641486">We have chance to create history: David Miller on South Africa breaking World Cup deadlock</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan will open their CWC 2023 campaign versus the Netherlands on October 06 in Hyderabad. After that, they will face Sri Lanka, also in the same city, before travelling to Ahmedabad to lock horns with Rohit-led India in a high-voltage clash at CWC 2023 on October 14.&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>Pakistan squad for World Cup</b>: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali</p>

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Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'.

Ahead of the CWC 2023 commencement on October 05 in Ahmedabad, Pakistan spinner and vice-captain Shadab Khan has hailed Indian captain Rohit Sharma. Shadab, who had a forgettable run in Asia Cup 2023, feels Hitman is the 'most difficult to bowl at'. Meanwhile, he also heaped praise on in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav and called him the most formidable Indian bowler. Kuldeep has been on a stellar run and will enter the upcoming World Cup after helping India win the Asia Cup and returning as Player Of The Tournament. On Rohit, Shadab told reporters in Hyderabad, "I admire Rohit Sharma a lot and, among the leading batsmen in the world, he is the most difficult to bowl at. Once he gets set, he becomes very dangerous. Among the bowlers, since I am a leg-spinner, it will be Kuldeep Yadav given his recent form." Rohit had taken Shadab to the cleaners with some big sixes during India and Pakistan's last encounter, which took place during the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup in Colombo. In the face-off, Shadab ended with 71 runs in ten overs and claimed a solitary wicket. The experienced campaigner didn't bowl in Pakistan's first World Cup warm-up game, where they failed to defend 346 versus New Zealand in Hyderabad, and, thus, his form will be closely monitored in Men in Green's last practice clash, where they face Australia on October 03 in Hyderabad. Shadab will look to draw inspiration from India's in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who ended with nine wickets in the Asia Cup. Lauding the 28-year-old, Shadab said, "As a leg spinner, I like Kuldeep Yadav a lot. He is a great leg spinner and in sublime form. Bowling in such conditions is not easy especially for a spinner as the tracks are flat but he has done well." Also read: We have chance to create history: David Miller on South Africa breaking World Cup deadlock Pakistan will open their CWC 2023 campaign versus the Netherlands on October 06 in Hyderabad. After that, they will face Sri Lanka, also in the same city, before travelling to Ahmedabad to lock horns with Rohit-led India in a high-voltage clash at CWC 2023 on October 14. Pakistan squad for World Cup: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan, Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Usama Mir, Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Hasan Ali WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rohit Sharma is the most difficult to bowl at, says Shadab Khan ahead of India-Pakistan CWC '23 tie

With ODI World Cup just around the corner, Indian fans are hoping for another trophy in the tournament which is happing in their backyard this time. Over the years, India have had many memorable victories in the marquee event but the most iconic wins still remain the ones in 1983 and 2011 finals.

With ODI World Cup nearing, here's India's famous wins at the previous editions

<p>Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, in an honest reply to an X user, admitted that Shahid Afridi's two sixes in the Asia Cup 2014 were 'really good shots.' Ashwin wrote the comments while a user tried to troll him on X by making him remember Afridi's twin sixes. The whole thread started when Ashwin replied to a Dinesh Karthik post. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Karthik, one of the commentators in upcoming ODI World Cup, tagged Ashwin as he waited for the bowler for an interview on the sidelines of India's warm up game against England on September 30. A user, by the name of Sawal Meer Khan, then wrote in reply to Ashwin: 'Shahid Afridi Still remembers those two sixes'</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-south-africa-pacer-dale-steyn-picks-these-five-bowlers-to-perform-well-in-odi-world-cup-641458">Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn picks THESE FIVE bowlers to perform well in ODI World Cup&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Ashwin, known for his wit and intelligence, immediately admitted to the shots being really good and replied: 'Those were really good shots man. Really admired him as a great ball striker.'&nbsp;Have a look at the conversation here:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Those were really good shots man.<br />
Really admired him as a great ball striker👌</p>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1708131973800378876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The two sixes had ensured Pakistan beat arch-rivals India in a thrilling Asia Cup 2014 contest. Pakistan needed 10 off the final over with two wickets left while chasing 246. Ashwin took a wicket off his first ball of the final over before Shahid Afridi got the strike on the third ball. The Pakistan all-rounder then smashed two back-to-back sixes off Ashwin and took his team home.</p>

<p>As for Ashwin, the veteran spinner is currently with India World Cup squad into which he made a dramatic last-minute entry. Ashwin was overlooked when the BCCI had announced a 15-member team earlier in September. An injury to India's world cup-bound spinner Axar Patel in the recently-concluded Asia Cup meant that there was a spot vacant.</p>

<p>The BCCI then included Ashwin for three-match series against Australia after the Asia Cup 2023 and subsequently named him as Axar's replacement in the World Cup squad. This would be Ashwin's second appearance in the World Cup, having already played in the 2011 edition which India had won.</p>

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Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, in an honest reply to an X user, admitted that Shahid Afridi's two sixes in the Asia Cup 2014 were 'really good shots.' Ashwin wrote the comments while a user tried to troll him on X by making him remember Afridi's twin sixes.

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, in an honest reply to an X user, admitted that Shahid Afridi's two sixes in the Asia Cup 2014 were 'really good shots.' Ashwin wrote the comments while a user tried to troll him on X by making him remember Afridi's twin sixes. The whole thread started when Ashwin replied to a Dinesh Karthik post. Karthik, one of the commentators in upcoming ODI World Cup, tagged Ashwin as he waited for the bowler for an interview on the sidelines of India's warm up game against England on September 30. A user, by the name of Sawal Meer Khan, then wrote in reply to Ashwin: 'Shahid Afridi Still remembers those two sixes' Also Read: Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn picks THESE FIVE bowlers to perform well in ODI World Cup Ashwin, known for his wit and intelligence, immediately admitted to the shots being really good and replied: 'Those were really good shots man. Really admired him as a great ball striker.' Have a look at the conversation here: Those were really good shots man. Really admired him as a great ball striker👌 — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) September 30, 2023 × The two sixes had ensured Pakistan beat arch-rivals India in a thrilling Asia Cup 2014 contest. Pakistan needed 10 off the final over with two wickets left while chasing 246. Ashwin took a wicket off his first ball of the final over before Shahid Afridi got the strike on the third ball. The Pakistan all-rounder then smashed two back-to-back sixes off Ashwin and took his team home. As for Ashwin, the veteran spinner is currently with India World Cup squad into which he made a dramatic last-minute entry. Ashwin was overlooked when the BCCI had announced a 15-member team earlier in September. An injury to India's world cup-bound spinner Axar Patel in the recently-concluded Asia Cup meant that there was a spot vacant. The BCCI then included Ashwin for three-match series against Australia after the Asia Cup 2023 and subsequently named him as Axar's replacement in the World Cup squad. This would be Ashwin's second appearance in the World Cup, having already played in the 2011 edition which India had won. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ravi Ashwin gives HONEST reply when told to recall Shahid Afridi's two sixes in 2014 Asia Cup

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