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The much-awaited Cricket World Cup 2023 is all set to begin from October in India. Notably, the last ODI World Cup edition that was held in India was in 2011, and it is after a gap of 12 years that the event has returned to the subcontinent. A total of 10 teams will participate in the marquee event, of which eight are already confirmed, and two will be decided through the ICC World Cup 2023 Qualifier in Zimbabwe.
The Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) has handed over a draft schedule for the upcoming 50-over World Cup to the International Cricket Council (ICC), which mentions that the first match will take place on October 5 between the defending champions England and the last edition’s runner-up New Zealand. Meanwhile, India will begin their campaign three days later against Australia on October 8.
It is worth mentioning that India are set to play nine league-stage matches across nine cities as per the tentative schedule. The hosts will face arch-rivals Pakistan on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. On the other hand, the Men in Green will play their group stage matches across five cities. Although the draft schedule doesn’t mention the venues for the semi-finals that are to be held on November 15 and 16, the summit clash will be held in Ahmedabad on November 19.
The ICC has sent the draft schedule prepared by the Indian board to the other participating countries for feedback before they approve it or announce the final fixtures for the Cricket World Cup 2023.
India’s ODI World Cup 2023 Draft Schedule:
- October 8: India vs Australia in Chennai
- October 11: India vs Afghanistan in Delhi
- October 15: India vs Pakistan in Ahmedabad
- October 19: India vs Bangladesh in Pune
- October 22: India vs New Zealand in Dharamshala
- October 29: India vs England in Lucknow
- November 2: India vs Qualifier in Mumbai
- November 5: India vs South Africa in Kolkata