In a recent appearance on an Indian show, renowned cricket commentator and former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra claimed that Pakistan, England, Australia and India will make their way into the semi-finals of 2023 One Day International (ODI) World Cup.
In his view, the Indian cricket team has an advantage over its opponents considering their recent performances. Expressing a strong hope in the team, he further claimed that India will have the advantage of playing in the comfort and familiarity of its homeground since the country will be hosting the tournament.
When it comes to Pakistan, Chopra believes that the team can make its way into the semi-finals due to their excellent performance in ODI whereas the talent and consistency of the Austrailians and English will lead them to the final four.
“I will be slightly surprised if any of them does not play the semi-finals, although you do get slightly surprised when the World Cup happens. The New Zealand guys are saying that they are also coming and it is an ICC event”, he added.
Earlier, another former Indian cricketer and Indian commentator, Sourav Ganguly, said that Australia, England, and India can reach the semi-finals but “You can never underestimate New Zealand in these big matches.”
After naming the four teams, Ganguly said, “I will pick five [teams for the semi-finals], and include Pakistan also.”
The upcoming ODI World Cup 2023 will be played in India in October-November.
