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As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the ODI World Cup 2023 set to be hosted in India from October 5 to November 19, former Sri Lankan spin maestro Muttiah Muralitharan has weighed in with his expert opinion on which team stands the best chance to clinch the coveted title.
The tournament will see major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad among others hosting fixtures, promising a thrilling spectacle for cricket enthusiasts worldwide. The opening game on October 5 will be a repeat of the last edition’s summit clash, with defending champions England taking on New Zealand at the illustrious Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The hosts, India, will embark on their campaign on October 8, facing Australia at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Cricket aficionados can circle October 14 on their calendars, as the much-awaited showdown between arch-rivals India and Pakistan is slated to be held in Ahmedabad.
Also READ: ICC announces full list of umpires and match referees for the ODI World Cup 2023
Muralitharan’s expert insight on favourite contenders
Muralitharan, known for his astute cricketing insights, highlighted the significance of subcontinent conditions, emphasizing that Asian teams, including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, hold a significant advantage.
“In our conditions, the Asian teams are better teams than those two (England and Australia) sides. Conditions matter—you are playing in India, not in England or New Zealand. The last time England won on home turf. But now they are getting beaten by New Zealand in T20Is. India and Pakistan will have a good chance; Sri Lanka is playing well, as is Bangladesh. Asian countries have a good chance,” Muralitharan stated, as reported by PTI.
The cricket legend acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the World Cup and the challenges it presents. However, Murali reckoned Team India have the better chance to repeat the 2011 heroics.
“Every team has its strengths and weaknesses. A World Cup is something that nobody can predict—when you come to knockouts, it is very hard. All teams are good; they would have covered their bases from the matches they have played. But if you ask, India has a better chance because they are playing at home,” explained Muralitharan.
